About Grace

1. What’s your name, major, and year?

My name is Grace and I am a sophomore. I majored in film my freshman year. Now I’m thinking of switching to education!

2. What programs have you volunteered for with Across Generations?

I volunteered with the storytelling and craft programs.

3. What’s your favorite part about volunteering with the elderly?

I love hearing stories!!! Learning about the seniors’ lives and connecting with them is so special. Some of them are Vietnam War veterans, and others are retired educators. Every story has depth and I love learning about them all.

4. Describe one interaction you’ve had with a senior. What did you have in common? What were you surprised about?

I connected really well with a senior named Alvalaz. (Al-vuh-laze) Better remember how to say it! She loves to cook and sew and I can’t do either. She loves to wear hats and I do not. I love to talk about everything with her and watch her signature head shake reaction to silly stories I tell.

5. Why did you want to volunteer with Across Generations?

When I learned of Across Generations, my heart was stirred to join. I'd thought about visiting nursing homes before but never had. It made me sad to think about seniors living in homes becoming bored or lonely without visitors. I wanted to help bring joy into their lives and show them the love of Jesus.

6. What have you learned by interacting with the elderly? Has your faith been impacted in any way? Please explain.

In all honesty, interacting with the elderly isn’t aways easy. It takes a lot of energy sometimes to be social with some seniors. Even though spending time with them is a fun and special opportunity, some days you’ll feel that there are other things you’d rather be doing. I’ve had to remind myself that by volunteering I’m doing the work of the Lord and ultimately serving Him.

7. Is there anything else you feel is important to share?

My photograph features me and Alvalaz!