Square One, Glenmeadow Launch Intergenerational Partnership

SPRINGFIELD — With a shared mission to provide unique, high-quality experiences for the people they serve, Square One and Glenmeadow have launched an intergenerational partnership.

With the goal of benefiting Square One’s preschoolers and Glenmeadow’s senior residents, the two agencies have scheduled regular visits to socialize, read, and participate in intergenerational activities.

On Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m., the children will once again visit Glenmeadow, located at 24 Tabor Crossing, Longmeadow. The children will join residents in an exercise class, followed by cookie decorating in Glenmeadow’s Doorstop Café.

“It has been said that intergenerational friendships are the windows to the world,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communications for Square One. “We know that young children have as much to teach as they have to learn. Bringing generations together allows older adults to see the hope and wonder of children. Likewise, children benefit from the experience and wisdom that our older generation can offer.”

Kathy Martin, president and CEO of Glenmeadow, added that “this is a mutually beneficial partnership that creates a bridge between Square One children and Glenmeadow residents. Intergenerational work is timeless, and participants across the continuum of age and experience will grow together in body, mind, and spirit. Programs like these not only ease feelings of loneliness and isolation, but promote fun, laughter, and learning for everyone involved. Spending time with others outside of your age group is beneficial on every level, and it’s a joy to witness the interactions between our residents and Square One students.”