For years, the older generation has struggled with loneliness and disconnection. Joslyn Searle, a senior here at Kimberly High School, has focused her senior project on combatting this crisis. She organized a pen pal program between the RISE 5th grade class and the Ageless Senior Center on Main Street.
Joslyn's passion for visiting seniors and making them feel loved began at a young age when she and her father would visit nursing homes. Reflecting on her experiences, she shared, "I love hanging out with older people and hearing all of their cool stories."
After planning and receiving donations of letter supplies, Joslyn presented her project to the RISE 5th grade class. She taught the students how to properly write a letter and guided them through writing their messages to their assigned pen pal at the ageless senior center. Additionally, Joslyn is also planning a day for the 5th grade class to meet their pen pal in person.
Joslyn hopes this initiative will become a tradition, continuing to combat loneliness among the elderly.