Last week I attended a Learn & Serve - Michigan Service Learning Sustainability Symposium with some colleagues. The symposium was intended for K-12 educators and service learning coordinators, but I was ecstatic to go as a representative from higher education because there was so much great information getting spread around!

Students and teachers at three Grand Rapids Public Schools worked to give a little warmth to those in need. Along the way, they learned that in order to get a little help, you need communication skills, determination, and the ability to see a project through.

Some younger students may not have much experience with senior citizens beyond their own grandparents. They may also be confused or even frightened when confronted with having to navigate through a retirement community if they are not familiar with their surroundings.