We've designed our process to be simple, dignified, and completely free for elders and their families. Our trained student volunteers conduct interviews at retirement communities, creating beautiful digital Legacy Pages that honor each elder's unique story.

1

Partnership & Planning

We partner with retirement communities, senior centers, and families. Together, we identify elders who are excited to share their cultural heritage and traditions.

  • Initial consultation with facility staff
  • Cultural sensitivity training for our team
  • Scheduling interviews at convenient times
2

The Interview

Trained volunteers conduct warm, conversational interviews (60-90 minutes) guided by topics the elder wants to share—recipes, traditions, family stories, cultural practices, or life wisdom.

  • Audio recorded with permission
  • Conducted in preferred language (with interpreters if needed)
  • Relaxed, story-driven conversation
  • Family members welcome to participate
3

Crafting the Legacy Page

We transform the interview into a beautiful digital page featuring photos, quotes, traditions, and the elder's story—organized to honor their cultural heritage.

  • Professional transcription and editing
  • Organized by themes (recipes, traditions, wisdom)
  • Photos provided by family when available
  • Culturally appropriate design elements
4

Review & Approval

The elder and their family review the Legacy Page before publication. We make any requested changes to ensure accuracy and respect.

  • Draft shared for feedback
  • Revisions made as needed
  • Full consent before publication
5

Publication & Sharing

The Legacy Page goes live in our archive and is provided to the family. They receive a shareable link and can download a beautifully formatted PDF keepsake.

  • Published in our searchable online archive
  • Private family link for sharing
  • PDF download option
  • Forever accessible online

What We Preserve

Every elder's story is unique. Here are common themes we document:

🍲

Family Recipes

Traditional dishes passed down through generations, often never written down.

🎉

Cultural Celebrations

How holidays and milestones were celebrated in their home country or community.

🎨

Traditional Crafts

Embroidery, pottery, woodworking, and other cultural art forms.

🎵

Music & Songs

Folk songs, lullabies, and musical traditions from their heritage.

💡

Life Wisdom

Lessons learned, proverbs, and guidance passed between generations.

🏡

Family History

Immigration stories, family trees, and ancestral connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost?

No. Our services are completely free for elders and their families. We believe cultural preservation should never be a privilege.

What if they don't speak English?

We work with interpreters when needed. The interview can be conducted in the elder's preferred language.

How long does it take?

From interview to published Legacy Page: typically 4-6 weeks, depending on review cycles.

Who owns the story?

The family retains full rights. We publish with explicit permission and can remove content anytime upon request.

Can family members be present?

Absolutely! Family participation often enriches the conversation and helps elders feel more comfortable.

What if they're camera shy?

We only use photos the family provides and is comfortable with. The Legacy Page can be beautiful without photos.