Kendal at Oberlin

EDITOR’s NOTE: Each week, we’ll feature intergenerational program ideas that were tried and successful. This series is a tool to highlight various age-optimized programs and practices. The program descriptions are provided by representatives of the programs. Inclusion in this series does not imply Generations United’s endorsement or recommendation, but rather encourages ideas to inspire other programs.

In part 10 of our series, we feature Kendal at Oberlin, an Ohio-based nonprofit and retirement community that promote civic involvement with the wider community and social relationships.


(Read parts one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight and nine.)

Through their residents’ work with Kendal Early LearningCenter, Kendal at Oberlin’s multifaceted intergenerational program reaches the larger community of Oberlin and Lorain County featuring an onsite Early Learning Center.

Kendal residents and staff play a significant role in mentoring students from more than nine educational institutions. Our community believes in the commitment to mentor the next generation.

Examples of Intergenerational Experiences include:

·    the one-to-one support of a resident volunteer during the morning preschool curriculum (i.e. a special story in quiet area, or help to create a John Deere tractor from a cardboard box, an extra pair of hands on a walk to the Russia Township Park or learning about the life of the honey bee from a special visit from an on-site resident beekeeper.)

·    A trip on the Kendal bus to the public library, or a field trip to a local apple orchard or one of the Lorain County metro parks with resident volunteers supporting hands-on learning.

·    Joining our Stephen's Care friends to make Green Eggs and Ham and celebrate Dr.Suess' birthday or enjoying an art or music experiences planned through the creative arts department.

The Early Learning Center opened at the same time as the Kendal at Oberlin retirement community and focuses on children 18 months – 5 years old. The Center creates opportunities for residents to continue their passion for teaching young children, as well as being with surrogate grandchildren.

Got something cool you tried that was successful? Why not tweet your cool intergenerational ideas to #cooligideas? You can also post them to our Intergenerational Connections Facebook Group. Youth Jumpstart Grantees can share ideas here. Or just text us through the Facebook Messenger app (friend me to join our Cool Intergenerational Ideas group discussion). We want to highlight innovative age-optimized programs and practices through our blog, social media and weekly e-newsletter!  Share the inspiration.