Joining Generations, a collaborative program of St. Paul's and Thiel College, is designed to bridge the gap between young adults and older adults by providing opportunities for learning and growing together.  Thiel's students particpate in internships, service projects, and acedemic opportunities at St. Paul's.  Residents of St. Paul's attend classes at the College, participate in speciall events, and serve as guest speakers in a variety of courses.

Internships
In a cooperative spirit, St. Paul's welcomes student interns in various areas of study. Internships are designed to translate theory into practical experience. Students can choose from the disciplines below or develop an internship in a variety of other areas. Administration, Marketing, Accounting, Human Resources, Information Systems, Spiritual Services, Social Services, Environmental Management, and Purchasing. Students who are interested should contact Tina Cascio.

 

Joining Generations’ service opportunities are designed to give students ways in which to contribute to the lives of St. Paul's residents through service. Students give of their time and talents to support the many programs, activities and special events held at St. Paul's. Through service opportunities, students build relationships with residents bridging the gap between younger and older adults. Service Opportunities include but are not limited to the following: · Brightening a resident’s day with a visit · Escorting residents to the fitness center, the beauty shop, daily activities, or for a walk · Assisting residents in writing and reading correspondence · Reading to residents · Helping with crafts and hobbies · Entertaining residents by singing or playing musical instruments · Playing games such as BINGO or cards · Adopting a resident to visit or correspond with · Working with residents and KIT – Keeping In Touch (adaptive computer equipment and software) · Assisting with special events and parties (holidays, birthdays, etc.) · Serving in Spiritual services o Helping with Sunday Services o Assisting in Bible studies · Accompanying residents on community outings to bowl, the park, museums, and more   Students who are interested in a service project should contact Mimi Dreher.

 

Joining Generations’ academic opportunities are designed to enhance learning for both the students of Thiel College and the residents of St. Paul's.      Often, professors incorporate a learning project into the course curriculum. Examples are English students interviewing residents and then translating those interviews into a life story, or Small Group Processing students planning an event or completing a project designed to benefit a particular audience at St. Paul's. In the past, group projects have included planning a Mardi Gras party, a Hawaiian Luau, the Marriage Game, a Treats & Trivia Night, and a Japanese Festival. One group worked together to develop a marketing video for St. Paul's marketing department.  Other academic opportunities include special presentations to classes given by residents of St. Paul Homes in their areas of education and/or expertise. In addition, residents of St. Paul's are invited to audit courses each semester. Residents enjoy special subjects such as music appreciation, literature, history, and much more.  Since the inception of Joining Generations, both students and residents have had the opportunities through academics to learn in the classroom as well as from each other. Students and/or faculty members who are interested in course work opportunities at St. Paul's should contact Tammy Lininger.

 

Students are a welcome addition to our volunteer services.  There are many ways to share your talents and time to support the services, programs, and special events at St. Paul's. To explore our volunteer opportunities please contact Rose Hoffman.