Accomplishing What Matters: Fostering Multi Generational Relationships
Accomplishing What Matters 007:
Kathryn Tate, President & CEO of The Legacy Center for Community Success
We live in a lonely era. For as connected as our society seems on the surface, deep and meaningful relationships seem to be on the decline. Many relationships are fostered through social media and texting now, rather than face-to-face interactions. The decline in in-person relationships seems to be taking a toll on the mental health of people of all ages.
It’s well known that multi generational relationships are valuable for young and old alike, but with families more scattered than ever, these relationships are fewer and farther between, and more likely to be connections through social media and texting. Where does one go to build connections like this, ones that are meaningful and benefit both parties?
The Legacy Center’s tutoring pairs are an amazing example of multi generational connections. Volunteer tutors spend two hours per week with their learner. During their tutoring sessions, they connect about life, they share stories, play (learning) games, and work hard to build reading, math, and English language skills. Time and again, we have seen reluctant learners come to our office when they start tutoring, feeling anxious and uncomfortable. In the span of a few weeks to a few months, the relationships grow and learners eagerly skip into the office with a smile on their faces, happy to see their tutor. As the relationship grows, students become more comfortable to try new skills and begin to build confidence.
But this does not just benefit the students. Tutors often report finding the experience to be fulfilling and their favorite volunteer activity. They enjoy the day-to-day interactions about school and life, but they love the “ah-ha” moments when a skill clicks into place! Tutors see the moments when a learner’s life begins to change for the better, when school gets easier, or an adult is ready to take the next step in their education or career, the moment when their hard work has paid off.
If you’re feeling lonely and looking for purpose and connection, The Legacy Center could be a great fit for you. Tutors don’t need to have a special background; the agency will prepare you with all the tools you need to teach the curriculum effectively, and their staff provide high levels of support when it is needed. Many kids and adults are waiting for a tutor to work with them. You could change someone’s life and build meaningful connections with just a couple hours each week. In doing so, you might just improve your mental health and theirs.
Do you have a Midland County story you would like to tell that aligns with our vision?