When games and good deeds equal fun

Playing games is beneficial at any age, from socializing and sharpening your mind to fostering community and boosting memory. And when you take this activity and combine a compassionate teen working on her Bat Mitzvah project and residents at an older adult facility, you’re guaranteed an afternoon filled with memories. 

Parker learned about JFS from her mom, Stacy, who was introduced to the agency when she was a tween, and one of her mother’s friends worked here. “Giving back to the community in visible ways is an important value I want to pass on to my kids,” said Stacey. Parker and her siblings began volunteering at a young age. For years, the family has donated time to JFS at local older adult facilities for the Jewish holidays, and the kids through their Hebrew school class. “When we started thinking about a mitzvah project [for Parker], giving back in a volunteer capacity seemed more meaningful than donating money,” shared Stacey. “We discussed a bunch of ideas and came up with a game day. My kids really enjoy interacting with the senior residents when they volunteer with the synagogue.” 

JFS Boulder Volunteer and Program Services Manager Nicole Hosack worked with Parker to orchestrate an introduction to the Golden West Senior Living activities director, helped develop the idea, and created a flyer for Parker to use to organize a games afternoon with residents. 

Armed with snacks, board games, puzzles, and cards, Parker and several friends who agreed to help spent a fantastic afternoon with approximately 12 residents. While poker seemed to be a great draw, with residents showing the kids their card skills (don’t worry; no bets with money were placed!), just as much fun was had when one of the residents brought down a Lego set that his grandchildren gave him for the holidays, and he needed some help putting it together. 

“My favorite part of the afternoon was seeing everyone having a great time and talking to the residents and hearing their stories,” said Parker. “I was surprised at how engaged the residents were and how much fun all the kids had. Volunteering is a good way to connect with people and is important, especially with older adults. I know most have grandchildren and kids, but when others take time to sit and talk, play games, build Legos, or more, they feel welcomed, and you feel better about yourself—at least in my case, that is what has happened to me.” 

The Golden West community appreciated Parker’s mitzvah project, and we agree with Parker’s mom, who said, “We don't have enough opportunities to create intergenerational connections and friendships in our daily lives, and I am so proud that Parker considered doing that for her Bat Mitzvah project.” Thank you, Parker, for your kindness! 

Thanks also go to the Boulder JCC, who donated fresh baked challah that were distributed to 12 residents at the end of the event.