The California Commission on Aging (CCoA) and Eldera have launched a statewide effort to recruit Californians age 60 and older to serve as weekly mentors for children ages 6 to 17.
The initiative pairs older adults with young people for 30–60-minute virtual conversations designed to build resilience, reduce loneliness, and strengthen communities, according to CCoA.
“California’s Master Plan for Aging calls for a state where all generations thrive together. This partnership turns that vision into action at scale,” said David Lindeman, Chair of the California Commission on Aging.
Through the program, older adults can sign up, complete training and a background check, and be matched with a young person based on interests, language, and availability. Eldera oversees recruitment, vetting, matching, and safety, while CCoA mobilizes local networks. Conversations take place weekly on video, supported by Eldera’s “AI Chaperone,” a tool designed to help keep interactions safe and meaningful.
“Age is California’s most underused natural resource,” said Dana Griffin, Co-Founder & CEO of Eldera. “Together, we can match life experience with young curiosity, safely, quickly, and with benefits for every generation.”
Griffin emphasized the unique value of older adults in an increasingly digital age. “As more of life moves online and AI becomes ubiquitous, young people need consistent human connection, someone who sees them, hears them, and shows up. Human connection requires a human, and our most untapped resource is adults over 60 with a little extra time, wisdom, and a desire to do good,” she said.
Cautioning against children relying solely on technology for emotional support, Griffin added, “Here is our reality: AI is great at predicting the next word, but it is not a substitute for someone who has lived experience. When a teen is spiraling or a young man is in crisis, the right response isn’t infinite engagement or worse, harmful directions,” she said. “It’s boundaries, perspective, and a caring voice that says, ‘You’re not alone. I’ve been there, too, and here’s how I got past it.’ Technology should protect human connection, not replace it.”
The campaign’s message is simple: “One adult 60+. One hour. Once a week. Two lives get better.”
Adults interested in becoming mentors and parents seeking mentors for their children can sign up at Eldera.ai.
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Article By: Bo Tefu, California Black Media
