Generations of Friendship: LeadingAge Illinois Awards Park Place Elmhurst
This year, Park Place of Elmhurst was recognized by LeadingAge Illinois, receiving the 2020 Community Impact Award for their relationship with the students at Timothy Christian School.
“Providence Life Services chose to build Park Place of Elmhurst next door to Timothy Christian School, knowing the impact intergenerational activities have on our youth, our older adults, and the greater community as a whole,” says Beth Welch, Executive Director at Park Place of Elmhurst.
The time they spend together runs the gamut of sporting activities, mentorships, services and trainings, and so much more. This relationship has truly been a blessing for both students and residents. Mike Harrington, a Park Place resident, has been heavily involved in Virtual Enterprises International (VEI), which allows former business executives to mentor high school students.
“The word that comes to mind when I think of the VEI program is excellence,” he says. “Excellence in the quality of the students who come to the program, and excellence in the way the program is laid out.”
The support that the students feel from the residents is incalculable. Carson Hooker, a Timothy Christian School soccer player, as well as part-time buser in the dining room, sees the value in the close relationships he’s formed with the residents.
“It’s a gap to fill,” he says. “There’s a bridge in between the residents and the students at Timothy Christian, and our programs do a great job of connecting.”
While the initial plan to receive the award in-person at the annual LeadingAge Illinois convention was canceled, Park Place received the award virtually instead. Regardless of the venue, the award was a great honor. We say a thank you to everyone who has made our program a successful way to enhance the lives of our community.
