Program expands to Caboolture

Caboolture seniors and students will be part of a new program working on joint activities from cooking to gardening and writing letters.

Starting next month, Caboolture State School students and older adults will learn new skills, share experiences and foster intergenerational friendships.

And people over 65, across the City of Moreton Bay, are being encouraged to get involved.

The intergenerational program will be delivered by Bolton Clarke with Brisbane North PHN and The Village Hub.

It aims to grow community connections and expand on The Village Hub’s work to improve wellbeing and connection for older people across the region.

Life Stories

Bolton Clarke is a leader in intergenerational programs through its SHARE storytelling initiative, underpinned by the work of its Research Institute.

Projects include the Life Stories program which has been a hit at Fernhill, Caboolture with university students spending time with residents to develop life story books and posters.

Bolton Clarke retirement village resident Brian Taylor joined the storytelling program that included a slam poetry competition, dance and developing market stalls.

“I was a bit dubious about participating but I ended up thoroughly enjoying the whole experience,” he said.

“It is nice to mix with my team of students and I really enjoyed the time I spent in the program coming out to the school each week.

Well behaved

“You tend to forget how enthusiastic kids are, what they are like and how well behaved and nice they are.

“It gives you the opportunity to share with younger people about your experience in life and learn from them too.”

Bolton Clarke’s intergenerational initiatives operate across Queensland and NSW.

For more information or to sign up contact Kerrie Tomkins on ktomkins@boltonclarke.com.au.