Huntington’s Grandfriends Spread Holiday Cheer

Huntington High School Grandfriends Club members traveled across town to spread their exclusive brand of holiday cheer at Sunrise Assisted Living, caroling alongside the happy residents, who quickly bonded with the dozen teenagers and their faculty advisors.

“Take our Huntington Grandfriends, add 35 residents and 16 songs and you, too, can bring back recollections and create new heartfelt memories,” said teacher Suzi Biagi, who along with faculty colleague Lauren Blackburn serves as an advisor to the group.

Dressed in cheerful holiday apparel, including festive antlers and jingle bells, the diverse set of carols were enjoyed by all. With the use of a Grandfriends caroling packet, a large screen TV projecting karaoke music and background lyrics displaying “the event could not have gone better,” one of the teenagers said.

“This year's extra special treat was the addition of sophomore Jessica Lee’s pet pup who has become certified as a visiting therapy dog,” Ms. Biagi said. “She was an instant hit and will be attending our Senior-Senior Prom as well.” That big event is set for May 10 at Sunrise.

“It was really nice to see how we brought joy to the residents,” senior Yuliana Perla said. “I’ll mist doing things like this next year.”

Freshmen Justina Hlenski and Chloe Donovan were also among the Grandfriends participating in the excursion across town. “It was lit,” said Ms. Hlenski in teenager-talk. “It was so much fun to see people smile.”

Ms. Donovan agreed with her classmate. “It felt so good to help make people happy,” the ninth grader said.

Many of the Grandfriends have been regular visitors to Sunrise Assisted Living. “This was my third year of caroling and every year it just gets better,” Senior Jessica Maixner said. “I love seeing the residents sing along and get in the holiday spirit with us.”