UCC Hosts "Bridging the Gap: 'They’re Not Like Us'" Bringing Our Seniors and Local Youth Together

UCC's Youth, Family, and Senior Services Department welcomed students and staff from North Star Academy this month for an event that brought two generations together in an unforgettable way.

The event, titled "Bridging The Gap: They’re Not Like Us," was held as part of UCC’s Senior Program and created space for meaningful dialogue, creativity, and connection between local youth and senior citizens.

Our seniors enjoyed a warm breakfast with the staff and students and then enjoyed a fun-filled morning with painting, interactive games, and guided discussions. The room buzzed with laughter, curiosity, and genuine exchanges that built connection and understanding between generations.

At the heart of the event was the recognition that our elders and our youth both benefit from community connection. Seniors offered wisdom, resilience, and stories shaped by decades of lived experience. Students brought fresh perspectives, energy, and a deep willingness to learn.

The event was a meaningful display of how today’s fast-paced and often isolated world can limit people of all ages' opportunities to connect, learn, and support one another.

UCC's aim with Bridging the Gap was to help our seniors and youth create new, meaningful relationships, build respect and understanding between one another, and empower our community to help all generations know their voices are valued and heard.