Several senior citizens volunteer at one of the middle schools in Webster, New York. They come for one day per week for six weeks. We have long tables set up outside the cafeteria and a simple craft project ready to go. Students eat their lunch and come out to the tables to connect with these seniors for good conversation, laughter and even a song or two! Students have the opportunity to talk to them in a non-judgmental, easy going atmosphere. Boys and girls alike will take part in the craft. Some examples are “goofy glasses”, book marks, paper weights, flowers, and cards. We always have assets attached to the craft project. Most of the time, we encourage students to make and give their creation to someone else. Our volunteers might take the opportunity to talk to the students about what a particular asset might mean, or ask the students what they think. On an average day, over 180 students come out of the lunch room to talk to one of their senior friends. It’s been an incredible success and the students are asking for more!
If you want more information on how to start your own Listening Post, contact Paula Burgin at 585-347-0051 or pburgin@ci.webster.ny.us
back to initiative