NISC Programs of Excellence 

• Year Awarded: 2026
• Programs of Excellence Name: See the World from Our Backyard
• Hosting Organization: Preble County Council on Aging, Inc., Eaton, Ohio

About the See the World from Our Backyard

"In January 2025, our senior center launched “See the World from Our Backyard,” an evening program designed to bring together residents of all ages in our rural community and celebrate global cultures," said Preble County Council on Aging Executive Director Shelley Ratliff. "Located just 20 miles from Oxford, Ohio, home of Miami University, our county had limited exposure to international experiences.

This program leverages local and university partnerships to address social isolation, foster intergenerational connections, and provide culturally enriching opportunities for older adults.

The senior center partnered with Miami University to recruit international students and instructors who designed experiences showcasing music, dance, traditions, and food from their home countries. The programs has highlighted cultures from Nepal, Nigeria, Japan, Thailand, Malawi, Kenya, Argentina, Spain, Holland, and Italy.

"Attendees engage directly with presenters, learning traditional songs, dances, and cultural customs, while also enjoying authentic dishes prepared by our kitchen staff using recipes provided by the presenters," Ratlff said. This hands-on approach allows older adults to engage socially, try new foods, and experience travel from the comfort of their own community."

"Local organizations and businesses have enhanced the program," Ratliff said. "For example, a Japanese-owned factory sponsored two months of programming, sending employees to lead presentations and prepare authentic meals. Neaton Automotive’s involvement provided both education and cultural immersion, while strengthening community ties and fostering pride among older residents seeing younger generations participate.

"This program is innovative in combining intergenerational learning, cultural exchange, and experiential engagement within a rural senior center context. Older adults benefit from increased social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and opportunities to connect with younger community
members. At the same time, the program expands the center’s reach to new audiences, including students, employees, and families, demonstrating the senior center’s role as a hub for lifelong learning and community building.

"Other centers can replicate this model by identifying local international residents or student partnerships, coordinating interactive cultural presentations, and integrating authentic food experiences. Essential steps include collaborating with cultural ambassadors, leveraging existing
kitchen resources, and ensuring programs are accessible for older adults and multigenerational audiences.

'See the World from Our Backyard' exemplifies how creative programming can strengthen social engagement, enrich cultural understanding, and enhance quality of life for older adults
while building bridges across generations and communities."

Key takeaways from See the World from Our Backyard:

• The program successfully brings together older adults, younger community members, students, and local employees, fostering meaningful social connections and reducing isolation.
• Strategic collaborations with Miami University, local businesses, and volunteers provide specialized
  expertise, sponsorship, and support, creating a sustainable model that other rural senior centers can replicate.
• Participants experience authentic global cultures through music, dance, traditions, and hands-on food preparation, stimulating cognitive engagement and expanding cultural understanding.

About Preble County Council on Aging

The Preble County Council on Aging has served the rural community of Eaton, Ohio, since 1973. The Senior Activities Center hosts programs and provides support to adults 60 and older.