CIRP was established within The Ohio State University College of Social Work to address a critical gap in research and practice focused specifically on intergenerational relationships. While many centers at Ohio State focus on distinct life stages—such as early childhood, youth, adulthood, or aging—CIRP was created to advance understanding of how intentional connections between non-adjacent generations can promote health, learning, and community development across the life course.
The Center builds on decades of national and international scholarship demonstrating the value of intergenerational programs, while responding to the growing need for evidence-based strategies that address age segregation, social isolation, and community well-being. CIRP brings together researchers, practitioners, students, and community partners to generate new knowledge, translate research into practice, and support sustainable intergenerational initiatives.
Under the leadership of nationally and internationally recognized scholars in intergenerational research, CIRP serves as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and dissemination—positioning the Ohio State University as a leader in advancing intergenerational research and practice locally and globally.