Third Third Research Project
About the Study
Baby Boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) are the largest generation in the history of the United States and are redefining aging as they move into retirement. At the De Pree Center, we want leaders to flourish in all seasons of life and leadership—including the time of life in and around retirement. That’s why we created our Third Third initiative.
Consistent with our strategy of conducting research to create resources for real life, we’ve been engaging in research to better understand how to help those in the third third of life live faithfully and fruitfully. Plus, we believe that what we learn will also equip others, such as pastors and ministry leaders, who serve older adults.
Phase 1
Phase 1 of our Third Third research project began in 2021. Senior Researcher Ruth Hill and Senior Strategist Mark Roberts interviewed a group of pastors, parachurch leaders, and authors who are experts on ministry to older adults. Several major themes emerged from this research and provided a framework for develop resources such as a training workshop for pastors.
Phase 2
Phase 2 of our Third Third research project began in late September 2023. Director of Research and Resources Meryl Herr along with Senior Strategist Mark Roberts and external consultant Amy Hanson have conducted a survey to understand the experiences of Christian older adults. This study will help us better equip individuals in the third third of life to live fully, faithfully, and fruitfully.
Survey Information
Study participants had to identify as a Christian and be age 55 or older. The survey was fully online and took approximately 12-15 minutes to complete. It was completely anonymous.
The survey is no longer open.
Research Team
Meryl Herr
Director of Research and Resources
Dr. Meryl Herr is the Director of Research and Resources at the Max De Pree Center for Leadership where she designs and conducts research studies that add to the understanding of what helps marketplace leaders flourish. She also oversees the team’s efforts to convert research findings into r...
Mark D. Roberts
Senior Strategist
Dr. Mark D. Roberts is a Senior Strategist for Fuller’s Max De Pree Center for Leadership, where he focuses on the spiritual development and thriving of leaders. He is the principal writer of the daily devotional, Life for Leaders,...
Amy Hanson
Doctor
We are delighted to host a webinar featuring Dr. Amy Hanson, author of Baby Boomers and Beyond: Tapping the Ministry Talents and Passions of Adults over 50. Amy has vast exp...
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