Wow! That's how I would describe our visit to the LGBT Community Center in Hillcrest.
From the time we arrived to the time we departed, the experience was fulfilling and enriching in both the wisdom and kindness we all gained. We arrived at the community center that serves the LGBT community of San Diego at around 11:30, and we were brought into a beautiful auditorium that definitely had historical significance. Once we filled out some paperwork, we were then invited to sit with some of the elders who had been invited to participate in an intergenerational activity with our class. We had a great turn out, and I was able to talk with many different people from all walks of life as well as, share my future goals with them. Before starting our activity, we were able to enjoy a delicious Italian meal with all the fixings, and continue speaking with some of the elders. At my table, we had a group of 6 energetic, and kind elders, who all shared their life and how they ended up in San Diego. They also spoke about their careers that span from nursing to social work, and counseling. all the while providing advice and support for pursuing my future goals.
After enjoying our meal, the real fun began! Our group was given a long piece of paper and markers and then was asked to write or draw what traits and characteristics should be apart of a truly intergenerational community; that promotes healthy living across the entire life course. I was delighted to see how each elder in our group provided an abundance of ideas and thoughts of how their community and others could be improved or made to encourage safety and health for all ages. Some of the key ideas include:
- Institute a two-year draft after high school where student are made to go into a public service sector, to develop the skills and awareness of the importance of our social services in ensuring the health and opportunities of all are afforded.
- Develop affordable intergenerational housing, where elders can live amongst children and younger adults.
- Provide affordable and accessible transportation via subsidized fares on a sliding scale for uber and lyft car sharing services
- Create buildings that incorporate a grocery store, healthcare services, housing, and social services all in one place
- Stricter enforcement of driving laws, and safer paths for pedestrians and bicyclist
We ended the visit with a chance for community members to share their thoughts on their experience with this activity. It was touching hearing the various elders share how much they enjoyed the time they spent with us, as well as the wisdom and support they gave all of us for our future. I look forward to continuing to engage and work with elders in creating better communities and overall life experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds, and life stories.
From the time we arrived to the time we departed, the experience was fulfilling and enriching in both the wisdom and kindness we all gained. We arrived at the community center that serves the LGBT community of San Diego at around 11:30, and we were brought into a beautiful auditorium that definitely had historical significance. Once we filled out some paperwork, we were then invited to sit with some of the elders who had been invited to participate in an intergenerational activity with our class. We had a great turn out, and I was able to talk with many different people from all walks of life as well as, share my future goals with them. Before starting our activity, we were able to enjoy a delicious Italian meal with all the fixings, and continue speaking with some of the elders. At my table, we had a group of 6 energetic, and kind elders, who all shared their life and how they ended up in San Diego. They also spoke about their careers that span from nursing to social work, and counseling. all the while providing advice and support for pursuing my future goals.
After enjoying our meal, the real fun began! Our group was given a long piece of paper and markers and then was asked to write or draw what traits and characteristics should be apart of a truly intergenerational community; that promotes healthy living across the entire life course. I was delighted to see how each elder in our group provided an abundance of ideas and thoughts of how their community and others could be improved or made to encourage safety and health for all ages. Some of the key ideas include:
- Institute a two-year draft after high school where student are made to go into a public service sector, to develop the skills and awareness of the importance of our social services in ensuring the health and opportunities of all are afforded.
- Develop affordable intergenerational housing, where elders can live amongst children and younger adults.
- Provide affordable and accessible transportation via subsidized fares on a sliding scale for uber and lyft car sharing services
- Create buildings that incorporate a grocery store, healthcare services, housing, and social services all in one place
- Stricter enforcement of driving laws, and safer paths for pedestrians and bicyclist
We ended the visit with a chance for community members to share their thoughts on their experience with this activity. It was touching hearing the various elders share how much they enjoyed the time they spent with us, as well as the wisdom and support they gave all of us for our future. I look forward to continuing to engage and work with elders in creating better communities and overall life experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds, and life stories.