Bridging Generations: Girl Scouts and Cedarhurst Residents Connect Through Stories and Shared Experiences
On a crisp Sunday afternoon in February, laughter and lively conversation filled the halls of Cedarhurst of Des Peres as twelve fourth-grade Girl Scouts from Keysor Elementary Troop 1476 in Kirkwood, Missouri, gathered with twelve residents for a heartwarming intergenerational event. What began as a simple craft activity quickly evolved into a meaningful exchange of stories, experiences, and wisdom, proving that no matter the years that separate them, generations have much to learn from one another.
quick to point out the shared values across generations, particularly the importance of kindness, resilience, and curiosity.
DISCOVERING COMMON GROUND
As conversations unfolded, surprising similarities surfaced between the Scouts and the residents. Nine-year-old Girl Scout Caroline Davis was fascinated to learn about the games residents played as children. “Some games were the same,” she said. “They played checkers and cards. I played Sorry with them, and they remembered playing that when they were younger.” The discussions also revealed how opportunities for young girls have evolved over time. One resident shared that when she was growing up, there were no school sports teams for girls, and they had to participate through organizations like the YWCA. Caroline was struck by how different things were then, realizing how fortunate she is to have a variety of athletic opportunities available to her today. For resident Barbara Burr, 88, and ten-year-old Scout Pema Henke, a love of art and basketball created an instant connection. “We both picked art as our favorite school subject,” Pema shared enthusiastically. Their conversation highlighted how passions and interests can transcend generations, creating bonds that defy age.
A MEETING OF MINDS AND MEMORIES
With colorful supplies in hand, the Girl Scouts eagerly introduced their craft project - creating personalized pens and bookmarks. As they decorated together, the young Scouts used their newly crafted pens to interview the residents, delving into what life was like when they were in fourth grade. Jackie Wegman, a 93-year-old Cedarhurst resident and former teacher, found the experience especially meaningful. “I always learn something from young people whenever I am around them,” she shared. Jackie fondly recalled playing outside with friends until nightfall, a contrast to today’s world where children face an ever-growing array of distractions. Despite these differences, she was
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