December Partner of the Month: Sunrise Senior Living

Ashlawn Elementary School has introduced a wonderful new initiative in collaboration with Sunrise Senior Living called “Grandfriends – Building Bonds Between Seniors and Students.” This program brings generations together through the shared love of reading.

Each week, residents from Sunrise Senior Living, many of whom are retired educators, visit Ashlawn’s kindergarten classrooms to share stories, laughter, and their lifelong passion for learning. This partnership not only supports early literacy development but also creates meaningful connections with seniors who are eager to give back and continue exploring new opportunities.

When asked about the most rewarding part of volunteering, one participant shared: “I love seeing a young student’s eyes light up when they understand a word or can sound something out correctly. I never thought I would get the opportunity to be back in a classroom setting again. Helping the students grow as readers fills my heart.”