This study examines the relationships developed between elder mentors and at-risk youth in the following exemplary intergenerational programs: (1) IUE/The Work Connection (Saugus, Massachusetts); (2) Teen Moms (Portland, Maine); (3) School Volunteers for Boston (Massachusetts); (4) Teenage Parent Alternative Program (Lincoln Park, Michigan); and (5) Teaching-Learning Communities (TLC) Mentors Program (Ann Arbor, Michigan). Information was obtained from site visits, a conference, interviews with professionals in the field of adolescent development, a review of the literature on adolescent institutions, and a brief review of intergenerational programming. Summary findings include the following: (1) primary and secondary relationships between elders and youth will form in programs designed for that purpose; (2) primary relationships are characterized by attachments approximating kinship, while secondary relationships maintained more emotional distance; (3) both elders and youth cited benefits from the relationships; (4) the most effective elders were those who had not lived what would be considered "successful" lives; (5) intergenerational bonds form because of shared emotional needs; and (6) programs were most effective when elders were placed in nonprofessional roles, given on-going support, and contact was structured. The appendices include a directory of the programs studied, a list of reviewers and the experts interviewed, and a topic guide used in interviewing the older people. A 75-item list of references is also included. (FMW)