Written by Dr. Amy Hanson

One thing is certain. Baby Boomers (born between 1946-1964) are approaching aging differently than the generation before them. They are described as independent, cause-oriented, and well-educated. They don’t want to be called a senior and generally aren’t interested in potlucks and bus trips. So, how do we begin to reach boomers while still engaging senior adults?

Form a Dream Team. For a boomer ministry to grow and develop, boomers themselves must be a part of the discussion and planning. Choose 8-12 individuals that have the potential to be leaders. Ask them to gather for a short amount of time (perhaps 4 weeks) to simply talk about their life issues and desires for ministry. As you listen, see if there are individuals who have a passion for reaching boomers and begin to cast vision to them. For more about starting a dream team check out this article.

As you start something new for boomers, don’t stop what you currently have going on for senior adults. Many of the programs that are reaching senior adults are valuable and effective. Some of them need to be re-purposed to encourage service and outreach, but most of the activities that are ministering to seniors should continue as you begin something new for boomers.

Identify leaders that can lead small interest groups that respond to the life events of boomers. Groups might be parenting adult children, support for those caring for an aging parent, or praying for grandchildren. Don’t get burdened by needing large numbers at one big event but rather look for the passions and needs of people and allow small groups to form around those issues.

Starting something new isn’t easy, but with 78 million baby boomers moving into their sixties and seventies, it’s well worth the effort.

** Dr. Amy Hanson link http://amyhanson.org/

** article link http://amyhanson.org/dream-team/