London retirement residence offers university students free housing in exchange for volunteer time with seniors
INTERGENERATIONAL LIVING PROGRAM
THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN CANADA
LONDON, ON, Aug. 14, 2017 /CNW/ - When Oakcrossing Retirement Living opens its doors this October, residents will share their home with students the age of their grandchildren and even great-grandchildren.
"This program is the first of its kind in Canada," says Heather Gingerich, owner and Director of Employee and Community Engagement at peopleCare Inc. "When students become active members of the retirement community it truly benefits both generations."
The idea for the Student Live-in Program was sparked by a news story about an Ohio retirement home where seniors and music students live as housemates. Oakcrossing is following the Cleveland model, inviting third and fourth year, and graduate students of Western University's Don Wright Faculty of Music to apply.
"We have three suites available right now," says Gingerich. "The seniors' lives will be energized and enriched by the student interactions, conversations and gifts of music. The students will gain much more than a free place to live. I expect they will discover the wonderful friendships that can develop with our residents."
In return for room and board, the students will be asked to spend about a dozen hours each week in our home; practicing in common areas, performing recitals and helping residents revive their own music skills.
"They will also join in meals and everyday socializing such as participating in special events and activities or just watching a movie with our residents," says Gingerich. "We believe it's a great partnership and are looking forward to watching the harmonies happen."
Oakcrossing Retirement Living will open in October 2017 and currently has model suites available for viewing.
Students interested in applying for the Oakcrossing Retirement Living Student Live-In Program may submit a resume and letter to: Carol Bradley, Oakcrossing Retirement Living via email to [email protected] or by mail to 1242 Oakcrossing Road, London, ON N6H 0G2
SOURCE Oakcrossing Retirement Living
or to schedule an interview, please contact Heather Gingerich at: 1-519-513-5260, ext. 211, [email protected], http://www.peoplecare.ca
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