On Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, students at Collège de Maisonneuve in Montreal were given the opportunity to sit down with an elder participant for a symbolic charge of 25 cents. The arrangement allows each student to ask questions and receive listening support from the older adult during a brief meeting.
The program, organized by the college, is designed to facilitate intergenerational dialogue without imposing a financial barrier. By setting the fee at a quarter of a dollar, the initiative emphasizes the value of conversation rather than monetary exchange. Participants are encouraged to engage openly, using the time to explore personal stories, cultural perspectives, or simply to be heard.
Students who take part in the session can expect a supportive environment where the elder’s role is to listen attentively and respond to inquiries. The format is informal, allowing for a natural flow of discussion. While the fee is nominal, it serves as a token that acknowledges the time and experience contributed by the elder.
Collège de Maisonneuve has positioned the offering as a way to bridge the gap between younger and older members of the community. By bringing students and seniors together, the college aims to foster empathy and mutual understanding across generations. The program is open to any student interested in the experience, and the elder participant is selected to provide genuine listening support.
The initiative reflects a broader trend in educational settings that seeks to incorporate community engagement into the curriculum. By keeping the cost at 25 cents, the college ensures accessibility while highlighting the significance of personal interaction as a learning tool.
The session on Aug. 13 marked the latest iteration of this intergenerational exchange, offering Montreal’s college students a rare chance to connect with an older voice in a setting that values both conversation and compassion.