RENFREW COUNTY (Pembroke) — It’s the kind of day that you just have to get outside to enjoy. It is evident that resident Rose “Maureen” Ritz and youth volunteer visitor Kira Simpson share the same sentiment. Kira points a bird nest amidst the fragrant lilacs, as they each enjoy spending some time together.
Kira’s visit represents a foray into the development of a youth volunteer program for Miramichi Lodge. Residents at the Lodge have long enjoyed intergenerational programs which to this point have primarily been focused on visits from our local kindergartens. Expanding on this concept, Miramichi Lodge has recently begun to explore the potential benefits of intergenerational visits from older children. An abundance of research points to a direct relationship between social engagement and improved seniors health including lower incidence of depression and cognitive decline. Research also supports that youth oriented volunteer programs yield excellent benefits for the volunteer such as enhanced communication skills and better understanding toward adults.
Kira’s mother, Stephanie Simpson validates the research findings, “This experience as a volunteer has opened Kira’s eyes regarding different aspects of life, and is setting her up for a future full of compassion!”
Client programs supervisor Kelsey Wagstaff concurs, “Kira has been leaving me notes updating me on each visit, each time talking about how much she loves getting to know our residents and how much fun she is having learning about what life has to offer”.
Many residents of Miramichi Lodge would enjoy the opportunity for such engagement. If you are interested please contact Kelsey Wagstaff at 613-735-0175 ext. 122.
