LSSI has received a $25,000 grant from the St. Joseph Community Health Foundation to support staffing and intergenerational activities at Children’s Village, LSSI’s early-learning center on the Lutheran Life Villages South Anthony Boulevard campus. This is the fourth consecutive year that LSSI has received a grant to benefit Children’s Village from the St. Joseph Community Health Foundation.
Intergenerational programming at Children’s Village brings together students and residents of Lutheran Life Villages for regular interaction and meaningful activities that benefit both groups. Each week, seniors spend time in the classrooms and participate with the children in group activities, including reading, crafts, and games. Residents and students often enjoy lunch together, and the weekly Children’s Chapel Program brings them together for worship. Special events happen throughout the year that engage seniors and children with unique and memorable moments, such as field days, harvest parties, zoo day, and an intergenerational graduation ceremony.
“Our intergenerational programming provides children and seniors with unique, intergenerational opportunities for growth, learning, and wellness,” says Children’s Village Director Kathy Lehman. “This program brings older seniors and younger children together in meaningful ways that expand their understanding of one another, increase the support for one another, and enhance the lives of those involved. It’s a powerful program that positively impacts lives and spans generations.”
Children’s Village is a state-licensed facility providing a wide range of educational, social, and recreational activities for children from 6 weeks to 6 years of age. The center uses the High/Scope Curriculum as it prepares students for kindergarten and beyond. Scholarships are available, making tuition affordable for qualifying families.
