Development, Education And Action
Organization profile published 1982

Publisher:  St. Paul's Centre at Trinity, 427 Bloor Street W., Toronto, Ontario M5S 1X7
Year Published:  1982  
Resource Type:  Organization
Cx Number:  CX2475

Development, Education and Action (DEA) is an intergenerational, non-profit organization concerned about aging.

Abstract:  Development, Education and Action (DEA) is an intergenerational, non-profit organization concerned about aging. DEA "views the individual not as a separate entity, divorced from social processes, but as an integral and inter-dependent part of the larger society, with an obligation to participate in and contribute to the society." The purpose of DEA is to provide:

1) a framework in which old and young people may analyse the social, cultural, economic and political structures affecting Canadians;

2) some resources to facilitate such study; and

3) support for collective action relating to this analysis.

The work of DEA is organized to combat the definition of old age as a "problem" and to address the health, income, housing and participation needs of older people. A number of strategies are employed. A school program allows older members of DEA to make presentations and share dialogue and experiences with young people. A drop-in discussion group meets bi-weekly to discuss topical concerns. In addition, DEA has produced (for lease and/or sale) two slide-tape montages: "The Old Ones: Growing Old in China and Canada" raises questions about societal strategies and myths about aging; "In Our Homes" stresses the need for older people to actively contribute in society and presents models for community planning.