Grandfriends Touch Hearts of
Senior Citizens
When the Huntington High School Grandfriends club comes in contact with a group of senior citizens, well, something nothing short of magical occurs.
Members of the Grandfriends recently traveled to the Atria assisted living facility on Beverly Road for an afternoon that included holiday caroling and a sing-along – with a variety of songs filling the air. To see the teenagers go to any length to try to please their much older counterparts was priceless. The visit brought some holiday cheer to a group of Atria residents who were looking for it.
Sponsored by Rotary Club, the Grandfriends have built strong relationships with senior citizen groups in the community and is a regular presence around town.
Suzie Biagi, who serves as co-advisor of the club, said that initiatives such as this one, help build "intergenerational relationships" and the experiences are "changing the lives of both the young and old."
The Atria visit is a Huntington tradition. This year the club members were accompanied by "Santa Claus," who in reality was recent alum Greg Corbly, a past president of the Grandfriends.
Senior Connor Davis tagged along on the visit after volunteering his magician services. The Atria residents loved Mr. Davis' tricks. "Nothing is better then helping transform a group of seniors into singing cherubs and watching their eyes light up with joy as the Grandfriends sing and visit with one and all," Mrs. Biagi said.
According to its website, the Atria Huntington facility is set on 14 acres and "is surrounded by a serene walking path in beautiful, residential Huntington Station. Lounge by our fireplace in the winter months or relax on the patio on a warm summer day. Enjoy a delicious meal in our restaurant-style dining room, which offers varied menu choices, including kosher-style selections. Atria Huntington is just minutes from shopping, community centers, and places of worship."