Grandfriends Spread Holiday Cheer
at Atria
When the Huntington High School Grandfriends club mobilizes it’s a heartwarming experience for local senior citizens. The teenagers have a special way with these seasoned adults, but sometimes it’s hard to tell who gets more out of the time the two groups spend together.
The Grandfriends recently traveled to the Atria Huntington assisted living facility on Beverly Road for an afternoon that included holiday caroling and a sing-along. The Huntington students tried very hard to please Atria’s residents and by every indication they succeeded.
Sponsored by Rotary Club, the Grandfriends have built strong relationships with local senior citizen organizations and facilities. Huntington teacher Suzie Biagi, who serves as the club’s co-advisor along with retired librarian Camille DeCanio, said initiatives such holiday caroling help develop “intergenerational relationships” and the experiences are “changing the lives of both the young and old.”
This marked the sixth year that the Grandfriends have traveled to Atria Huntington for caroling and assorted activities. The teenagers and senior citizens sang holiday songs together and visited with one another, telling stories and jokes. They even shared cookies and refreshments. “It was so much fun,” a new Grandfriends club member said about the afternoon.
The Huntington GrandFriends will be visiting Atria again in the spring for some board game fun and the annual fashion show. The Atria residents will get their chance to visit the GrandFriends in their own habitat on May 3, 2013
Grandfriends club members are already planning their next trip to Atria Huntington. The spring visit will feature board games and a fashion show. Atria’s residents are also invited to attend Huntington High School’s 20th annual senior, senior prom on May 3.
“Our students are a special group,” Mrs. Biagi said. “They are loving, patient and kind young people and nothing makes Camille and me happier than facilitating opportunities for them to share their hearts.”
According to its website, the Atria Huntington facility is set on 14 acres and “is surrounded by a serene walking path in beautiful, residential Huntington Station. Lounge by our fireplace in the winter months or relax on the patio on a warm summer day. Enjoy a delicious meal in our restaurant-style dining room, which offers varied menu choices, including kosher-style selections. Atria Huntington is just minutes from shopping, community centers, and places of worship.” It was once used as a school building by the South Huntington School District.