The
program was held once a week on Thursdays at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement
Community. Children arrived each week after school to take part as well
as JMU students. Group partners were formed and activities, games, and
crafts were done each week. At the end of each session, reflection was
done through journaling. Each week had a designated theme and all activities
revolved around that theme.Talent day, where everyone got to share their
talents. Nature day, where we went on a nature scavenger hunt. Beach party
day, which gave the kids an opportunity to make sand art. There were also
many other fun filled theme days. Generations Together will continue to
be an ongoing program at JMU as a service learning component of selected
gerontology and family issues courses. The next program will take place
in the Fall of 2002. If you are interested in participating, please contact
us.
Here
are a few quotes from some of the students and older adults who have participated...
"I really believe that I am not only going to learn more about others through this project but I am going to learn even more about myself."
"Seeing the children's excitement during the games took me back to my days as a child and I smiled at the memories of the carefree world in which I used to live."
"Funny how the same activity is so enjoyed by people of such a young age group and an older age group."
"One of the little girls was explaining the movie to the older adult and he would listen and respond and really seemed to be enjoying their conversation."
"And that's (older adult participation) awesome because he gives me that "grampa" feeling and that's so wonderful to experience when your own are thousands of miles away and you only get to visit once a year or perhaps get a monthly letter if everyone can find the time to write."
"Overall, this has been a wonderful project and a great opportunity to get to experience first hand, people that are going through different stages of life."
"I had a great time getting to know everyone and participating in the activities and I would love an opportunity to do it again!"
"I
think the experience opened my eyes and disproved any stereotypes I may
have had about older adults in general."
