Unique Summer Camp for Older Adults and Children

Northbrook, Ill.: Residents from Covenant Living of Northbrook recently joined children from the North Suburban YMCA Voyager Camp by participating in some camp activities. However, given the current limitations on visitors to the senior living community during the pandemic, organizers came up with alternative ways the two groups could still interact with each other. Instead of meeting face-to-face in the sharing of songs, games and dance, the summer activities were shared online via video.

“We understand the importance of health and safety, not only for the Voyager campers, but also the residents at Covenant Living,” said Kim Nyren, YMCA Director of Community Investments. “Doing these camp activities through video still allows for safety, but also adds in that important component of inter-generational activities which truly helps in creating community.”

One example of the videos shared by the Voyager campers included the children physically distanced while dancing to the Macarena song. In turn, assisted living residents from Covenant Living returned a video to the campers of them singing, He’s got the whole world in his hands.

“Our partnership with the North Suburban YMCA is so valuable to our residents,” said Meave Foley, Covenant Living of Northbrook community advisor. “Normally a project like this would have been in person, but even if through video, the heart and intent of the inter-generational connection is just as strong.”

Although the summer camp program ended in mid-August, both groups intend to continue their collaboration on future projects to keep the connection strong between the children and assisted living residents.

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ABOUT COVENTANT LIVING OF NORTHBROOK

Covenant Living of Northbrook, a faith-based, not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, is located at 2625 Techny Road, Northbrook, Ill. It is administered by Covenant Living Communities and Services, one of the nation's largest not-for-profit senior services providers. Covenant Living serves 5,400 residents at 17 retirement communities nationwide and is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. For more information on Covenant Living of Northbrook, please visit www.covlivingnorthbrook.org or call 877-816-5568.

ABOUT NORTH SUBURBAN YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 15 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.