Youth on keeping older adults safe

Some teenagers spend their free time hanging out with friends, doing sports, or enjoying their youth in any number of ways us adults now only dream of. However, one group of Junior High School students from St. Ambrose School, spent their free time with the elderly. Every week for three months, a group of creative youth became friends with residents at the Arbour Lake Atria Retirement Centre. They were part of the GoodLinks Intergenerational Program.

The GoodLinks Intergenerational Program was an opportunity for St. Ambrose’s students to bridge the gap between youth and older adults by building connections and friendships through stories and art. GoodLinks is an organization that has a vision - for every person to have a meaningful connection with a person of another generation. Founder Betty Good aims to address and eliminate elder abuse, one project at a time.

The theme of this year’s project was “Keeping Older Adults Safe.” Participants explored the topic of elder abuse together, and how to recognize the signs. Inspired by the stories shared by their senior friends, the students created original artwork that was compiled into a book available for purchase. The creative collaboration served as both a tribute to their intergenerational bond and a tool for raising awareness. 

The project culminated in a presentation at the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) event hosted by Unison Kerby Centre. Four grade 9 students took to the stage to share heartfelt stories of their experiences and the friendships they built. Their words brought the intergenerational theme to life, showing just how powerful these connections can be. When generations come together, they do more than just bridge an age gap – they create a safer and more caring world for all. Connecting generations truly protects generations.

For more information about the GoodLinks Intergenerational Practice: www.goodlinks.ca, betty@goodlinks.ca, 587-899-8697