DALTON, GA — The Community Service-Learning class at The Dalton Academy (TDA) bridges the generation gap between high school students and Dalton’s aging community. Through hands-on engagement, students develop vital leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while making a meaningful difference in the lives of local senior citizens.
Each week, students visit their “buddies” at Dalton Square Assisted Living to play games, make crafts, share stories, and enjoy quality time together. In the classroom, students work collaboratively to plan upcoming events, fostering creativity and project management skills. Beyond the normal school day, students volunteer at special events, including the Dalton Square Fall Carnival, a December “Christmas Store” at Quinton Memorial, where residents select free holiday gifts for loved ones, and a spring Senior Citizen Prom.
The relationships built through the program carry deep meaning for everyone involved. Resident Kathleyn McGurier shared, “The children mean the world to me. I look forward to seeing them, and I miss them when I can’t be there with them.” Fellow resident Wesley Henderson called the students “a blessing to me,” appreciating the opportunity to guide them and share life lessons.
Regina Painter, Activities Director at Dalton Square, emphasized the impact on the facility: “Our residents look forward to every visit. It has enriched their lives and brought a special bond that bridges the generations. We are so thankful for Dr. Quick's program and that we were chosen to be a part of it.”
The program's continued success is made possible by the generous support of the Respect and Honor Your Elders (RAHYE) Foundation, established by Alice Yim and her late husband. In addition to funding classroom activities, the foundation will award scholarships to at least three TDA seniors this year, bringing the total awarded since the program’s inception four years ago to more than $10,000.
“Starting this program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Dr. Quick. “I’m deeply grateful to the RAHYE Foundation and the Yim family for helping us make a lasting impact on our students and the seniors we serve.”
