At Diana Gregory Outreach Services, we offer more than carrots and kale and bananas and broccoli. We offer intergenerational programs where youth serve seniors. During the holidays, in collaboration with the Archer Ragsdale Arizona Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. area youth engaged in packing bags of fruits and vegetables for seniors, serving a holiday lunch, and singing Christmas carols. (Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Wellcare, for contributing the bags of fresh produce and to our volunteers for participating at Maryvale Parkway Terrace.)
And did you know that children who are involved in intergenerational mentoring programs benefit as well?
- 46 percent are less likely to begin using illegal drugs
- 27 percent are less likely to begin using alcohol
- 52 percent are less likely to skip school
They develop “skills, values, and a sense of empowerment, leadership, and citizenship … social networks, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, positive attitudes towards aging, a sense of purpose and community service . . . [and] good self-esteem.”
Indeed, that’s a lot more than carrots and kale!
Over 2,500 seniors throughout Maricopa county received bags of fresh fruits and vegetables during the Gift of Nutrition program in November and December. We thank Platinum sponsors – Southwest Airlines, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, AARP, APS and Carstens Family Funds.