Matchmakers Spark Friendships Between Teens and Elders

Andrea Levitt, 82, and Angelo Williams, 16, are paired by one of several nonprofits “that work to make US society less segregated by age to get the generations together.” Griffin, a non-profit director, pointed out, “We have an epidemic of loneliness and isolation that was exacerbated by the pandemic and has serious consequences.” Additionally, we create communities, services, infrastructure and policies that build up “artificial silos and barriers between the generations. "She says these relationships with the young remind older people of their worth in the world.” And the benefits go both ways. “She says kids need a sympathetic, non-judgmental ear — someone other than their parents.” Angelo signed up thinking it was about him helping older people. But he said, "You get to learn a lot about somebody else and also like, keep their stories with you, and even learn from their experiences and get really great advice."

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