We may have Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and dozens of other social media sites, but most of us know the chances for older and younger generations to meet face to face are dwindling. That means older generations rarely see young people unless special efforts are made—and young people miss out on the experience and wisdom older adults could share with them. On February 26, Hill-Murray School students worked on a special project with residents at Thomas T. Feeney Manor in Minneapolis—and both generations had a unique opportunity to connect. The Catholic Spirit was on hand to capture the story.

Thomas T. Feeney Manor offers enhanced assisted living and memory care to older adults with low incomes and is owned by the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA). Assisted living and memory care services are provided by Augustana Care. Feeney Manor is part of the Heritage Park Senior Services Campus in Minneapolis, which opened in 2012. When students visited in February, they helped residents sort through family photographs and write down descriptions of photos that had particular meaning. Photographs were then placed into personalized memory books.

“Many times, residents with memory issues may become anxious or disoriented,” says Augustana Care Regional Housing Director Mary Jo Thorne. “These books can be used to anchor them and remind them of their most pleasant memories.” In addition to helping older residents put their memory books together, students learned more about older generations and the valuable contributions they make to all of us as grandparents, neighbors, friends and volunteers. You may view the article here.