LAC LA BICHE - A group of youth who volunteer with the Next Gen Teen program through Lac La Biche County FCSS recently spent time socializing with long-term care residents and participating in Easter activities.
According to Christine Martin, a community outreach worker with FCSS, these young volunteers were at the long-term care section of the William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre in Lac La Biche on April 16. When they go to local seniors’ centres, the teens like to do activities that are a bit out-of-the-ordinary. That is exactly what they did for this event.
“Along with the normal Bingo activity, we also played a game of ‘Survival of the Easter chicks’, ‘Easter bunny bean bag toss’ and also had a visit from the Easter Bunny himself,” Martin said. “The Easter bunny handed out special treats to each of the residents.”
The Next Gen Teen volunteer group rotates visits between the long-term care area of the hospital, Lacalta Lodge, and the Golden Sands Seniors Centre. The group has been doing activities at the seniors’ care facilities for a few years now.
The experience allows the teens to practice their volunteer skills in a setting where it is controlled and safe.
“The teens get to see first-hand how taking the time to volunteer can bring such happiness and joy to people,” Martin said.
She noted how well seniors and teens get along with each other. Both groups tend to enjoy doing something a bit different and unique and aren’t afraid to act silly and have fun.
FCSS staff, she explained, have heard from seniors that they really like the energy the teens bring during their visits. In turn, the teen volunteers enjoy spending time with older people.
“I have heard many times that teens feels as though it’s like visiting their own grandparents, who they might not get to see very often or at all. It’s important for the teens in our community to connect with the older generation and realize that these are the people who helped develop the community we live in today,” Martin stated.
Akira Patenaude was among the youths who visited with residents of the long-term care facility and played games with them.
“The most fun activities were probably the chick race and ball throwing,” Patenaude stated, adding that the Easter Bunny making an appearance at the event seemed to make everyone’s day.
Patenaude participates in activities that are put on through the Next Gen Teen program and enjoys volunteering her time to help the community.
“Through these experiences and events, I find that it gives hope in some way to enjoy the most important parts of learning and development,” she said.
