Julie Stuhlsatz and her young son, Tyler, were looking for a way to enjoy the rewards of volunteer work when they hit upon the idea of interacting with Cherry Village Benevolence residents.
And they’re glad they did.
Since early this summer Tyler, 12, has been reading to residents in the long-term-care facility’s memory unit three times a week. He also shares with other residents by coloring and playing games with them.
“We talked with the folks here at Cherry Village and realized this would be an excellent opportunity for Tyler,” Julie said. “The residents enjoy the stories and other activities. I am extremely proud of Tyler.”
Tyler reads stories such as Cinderella and Pinocchio.
Now that the school year is getting underway, the sixth-grader will not be able to spend as much time at Cherry Village. However, he said he plans to work out a schedule during school breaks from St. Joseph in Ellinwood.
“I like coming here and I think they like my visits,” Tyler commented. “I will come when I can.”
While the residents enjoy the interaction with young people, Tyler also is benefiting in several ways.
“He is building his self-confidence and learning how to associate with older people,” Julie said. “Tyler’s communication and social skills also are improving and he feels good about helping the folks here.
“And to top it off, there are no video games here,” the Great Bend mother laughed. “He is just enjoying the interaction with people.”
Pam Lewis, Cherry Village administrator, said Tyler’s contributions help in so many ways.
“For example,” she said, “this is a good way to allow our memory-unit residents to get comfy and enjoy an activity. The idea is to allow them to relax because in some cases dementia can make people anxious.
“It is sometimes difficult for them to be calm, which means they get more tired,” she continued. “Tyler helps them relax with his stories, and they often nod off. That is the whole idea – relaxation.”
Lewis noted that Cherry Village encourages youngsters in elementary school to consider sharing their time with the facility’s residents.
“The people here love to interact with the young folks,” Lewis said. “It can make their whole day.”
Anyone interested in volunteering may contact Cherry Village’s Tina Mingenback by calling 620-792-2165.
Cherry Village, 1401 Cherry Lane, is a non-profit entity managed by a local family.