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Strengthening intergenerational relationships in the Adirondacks

Tupper Lake Middle-High School students join roughly 60 Tupper Lake elders for a discussion Nov. 14 at the Wild Center in Tupper Lake. (Photo provided)

LAKE PLACID – Mercy Care for the Adirondacks, Tupper Lake Aging in Place Task Force, and the Wild Center hosted an intergenerational relationship-building event on Nov. 14 at the Wild Center.

Mercy Care facilitates the work of the Tri-Lakes Aging in Place Task Force.

“Our Board has made it a priority in our new strategic plan to empower communities, elders, and people of all ages to create more aging-friendly communities, which result in benefits for all,” Board President Jerry Hayes said.

With guidance from Faculty Advisor Jennifer Merlob, students from Tupper Lake Central School’s National Honor Society presented their program to 60 Tupper Lake elders and community friends. Following the presentation, students and community residents enjoyed lunch together where they engaged in lively conversation.

Student presenter and National Honor Society President Rebecca Delair said, “It was a great experience to interact with the older generation of Tupper Lake and was a great start for this year’s National Honor Society group.”

“I enjoyed getting to know the senior citizens at my table during lunch and was surprised to find that we all had a lot in common,” student Dorran Boucher said.

Faculty advisor Jennifer Merlob remarked, “This particular group of students are very outgoing, easy to talk with, and genuinely interested in learning about Tupper Lake’s past from the previous generations. Many of the attendees came up to me throughout the lunch to let me know how much they enjoyed the presentation the Honor Society gave, and speaking with the kids at their table. It was a very happy occasion, for sure.”

Hayes added, “Mercy Care deeply appreciates the leadership at the school at every level–from the Administration, to instructional staff, to students–for their recognition of the value of building strong, intergenerational relationships in our communities.”

Support for the event was received from the Tupper Lake Rotary and St. Thomas Episcopal Church, and an anonymous donor.

Mercy Care for the Adirondacks is a mission sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy to enhance the fullness of life of elders living in their community. Its work is carried out through its Volunteer, Community Empowerment, and an Education and Advocacy Programs.

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