By MaryBeth Kane
According to Mentoring.org, although one in three young people will grow up without a mentor, young adults with a mentor are 130% more likely to hold leadership positions, 78% more likely to volunteer, and 90% likely to be interested in mentoring themselves. This can be a life-changing exchange that not only crosses generations but spans them as well.
Research shows that the benefits of this reciprocal relationship for our senior population can be life-giving, as both parties find fulfillment in connecting to the other generation. At the heart of intergenerational relationship building is the sense that the person is not alone in facing life’s challenges, and their presence in someone’s life is valued and appreciated. This connection can also offer a reprieve from one’s own problems and offers a rare glimpse into someone else’s world.
One is never too old to make an impact on the world. I have seen first-hand the effect that connections between the generations have had on the residents of the Arbor Terrace Senior Living community. When the residents have had the opportunity to interact with young people, their sense of being valued and purposeful soars. For this reason, we look for ways for our community of seniors to support area youth.
Projects that connect us to organizations, such as Roots & Wings, give our residents a lift to their own spirits. The seniors find fulfillment in being of value and having their wisdom and experience appreciated.
If you are feeling the urge to make a difference in your community, here are a few Morris county youth-based organizations that would love to hear from you:
Roots and Wings rootsandwingsnj.org
Literacy Volunteers of Morris County lvmorris.org
Big Brother Big Sister of America bbbs.org
Consider taking the time to help our youth become hopeful about the future.
Mary Beth is a Senior Care Counselor for the Arbor Company and can be reached at marybeth.kane@arborcompany.com