Intergenerational connections flourish at Harbor Village

Harbor Village residents in Victor Harbor are fostering intergenerational bonds with students from Encounter Lutheran College through their heart-warming ‘Friday Fun’ sessions, enriching both the young and the young-at-heart.

The residents of Harbor Village, in Victor Harbor, have become a beloved part of the school calendar for Year 1 and 4 Buddy Classes at Encounter Lutheran College, which is approximately 100 metres up the road. Every second week of the school term, about eight residents eagerly gather in the recreation room, anticipating the arrival of the students for the ‘Friday Fun’ sessions.

Friday Fun activities range from Easter crafts and board games to exploring old farming implements and singing along with ukuleles. These activities align with seasonal events, themes, or the residents’ interests. The sessions provide a platform for both young and old to share knowledge and learn from each other. Children often leave with smiles, while residents enjoy the company and feel fulfilled by the interaction.

As the program gains momentum, residents’ confidence grows, with many rediscovering a natural affinity for engaging with young minds, having backgrounds as former teachers, librarians, or parents. Despite initial hesitations, the enthusiasm of their peers encourages them to participate and return. The residents, affectionately known as ‘Village Friends’, offer valuable and meaningful connections, time, and interest to the students and residents, enriching the lives of both generations.

The uplifting program, inspired by ABC television show ‘Old People’s Home For Teenagers’, is partly funded by an LLL Mission Outreach Grant awarded to Victor Harbor Lutheran Church in 2023.

The $15,000 grant was used to hire a part-time Intergenerational Community Engagement Officer, who is helping to build new relationships and strengthen connections between the Lutheran school, retirement living, and church communities.