The LINKages program once again proved its incredible value by bringing together 33 junior high school students from St. James School Calgary, and 17 seniors from Staywell Manor for bi-weekly visits. Each one-hour meet-up was packed with fun games and activities designed to spark knowledge sharing, encourage social and emotional growth, build leadership and problem-solving skills, and boost both fine and gross motor abilities. Most importantly, every visit offered a chance for students and seniors to connect on a personal levelāand to discover just how much they could learn from each other.
When asked about the impact of these visits, many seniors spoke of feeling uplifted and energized. One remarked that the students āmade me feel young,ā while another said it was simply āa great feeling.ā On the flip side, the students revealed that they walked away from the program with strengthened patience, improved conversational skills, and a renewed desire to volunteer. One student stated: āThis has influenced me to become a better person, be kinder, and to think about my choices.ā
A special highlight of this yearās program was the generosity of **Harry Tetz** and his son, **Rick Tetz**āowner of **CalStreets Skateshop** in Vancouver. They donated swag bags, boards, fingerboards, stickers, and, for the grand finale, ten exciting items for a prize draw. In a heartfelt gesture, Rick also contributed a limited-edition āCritter the Catā skateboardāan homage to one of CalStreetsā beloved shop cats.
This magical experience would not have been possible without the dedication of **Betty Good**, the school program coordinator who organized every detail behind the scenes. Reflecting on his involvement, Rick shared: āThese students are amazingāspending their free time with seniors to play pool, board games, and just chat. It made my dad so happy, I had to be involved in some way. Iām incredibly proud to support this great program by contributing prizes and swag that really stoked the students.ā
In the end, every participant walked away with a beaming smileāand a fingerboard from Blade Park/Pro Shop. This story beautifully illustrates how LINKages continues to bridge generations, leaving lasting impressions on both students and seniors alike.