October 29, 2015 (Denver, NC) ─ Several area school groups have formed intergenerational partnerships with seniors at Wexford House, a DePaul Senior Living Community in Denver. All it takes is smiles to bridge the age gap!

Southlake Christian Academy first-graders have been visiting Wexford House once a month to play games, hand out prizes and sing songs with seniors for the past 13 years. Pictured above are Wexford House resident Glenda McFalls and Southlake Christian Academy first-grader Aleissia Clark, as well as student Matthew Francis with Wexford House resident Sammie Atwell.

“Each visit is a blessing to our students and the teachers,” said Southlake Christian Academy first-grade teacher Elizabeth Bach. “Our goal is to foster a Servant’s Heart in our students and to share the love of Jesus with the residents at the Wexford House.”

Seeds of Promise, a parent cooperative homeschool and family support group including 80 youth from birth through twelfth grade, has recently begun visiting Wexford House. On a recent visit, the youth spent time with the residents playing bingo and decorating the activity room for fall.

Pictured here are Wexford House residents Betty Bryant, Wanda Wells and Williene Killian with Seeds of Promise youth Carline Ervin, Erika Wishnefsky, Allison Green, Avery Wishnefsky and Hannah Marsh.

“Despite the wide age difference between our students and Wexford House residents, both have a need for companionship,” said Rebecca Clint of Seeds of Promise.

“We were touched by how welcoming, kind, friendly and happy the residents at Wexford House are. Our children learned about the importance of serving others and how simply spending time with someone and playing games with them is a way to show you care.”

And the seniors benefit as well!

“A child’s smile brings happiness to our seniors and reminds them of their youth and of raising children themselves,” said Wexford House Activities Director Leslie Spinner.

For more information about Wexford House, please contact Administrator Pam Morrell at (704) 489-2633 or visit us on Facebook.