“A vibrant community recognizes the importance of connecting its people across generations. Harpswell Aging at Home is always looking for new ways to involve our younger neighbors with our older ones to foster mutual respect, understanding and caring,” said LeAnne Grillo, a member of the HAH Steering Committee. As HAH pursues its mission of “helping people thrive while aging at home,” a key endeavor has been establishing intergenerational partnerships with nursery school children and Girl Scouts, in addition to students from middle school through college.
Harpswell’s Girl Scout Troop 1263 joined a HAH-sponsored holiday cookie swap on a Saturday afternoon in December. Entertaining the cookie swappers with carols, the Scouts also handed out holiday cards to the participants.
“We like to do fun things that help the girls feel like they’re making connections with their community while making a difference,” said Abby Svenson, co-leader of the troop. “The girls had a wonderful time and really wanted to connect with those at the event.”
Last fall, students at Harpswell Coastal Academy raked the yards of several Harpswell residents. HAH publicized the opportunity and connected residents with the school.