On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, a group of local Jewish teens decided to spend their time off bringing joy and companionship to seniors at Village Shalom.
At an event organized by KCteen, the teens bonded with the seniors while painting canvases and sharing a spread of bagels and schmear. Led by art therapist Sherri Jacobs, the event was hosted in partnership with Village Shalom, a senior living facility in Kansas City.
The residents and teens spent the time bonding, planning and painting their canvases together. Each artwork displayed the Jewish name of its painter against beautiful backgrounds and designs. The meanings of each name were discussed throughout the afternoon by Rabbi Avremi Baron of KCteen.
“Mesorah, the transmission of values from parents and grandparents to their children, is the core of Jewish continuity,” explained Mushky Baron, co-director of KCteen. “It is invaluable to help bridge the gap between generations, all while the teens grow accustomed to giving back to the community where they grew up.”
The painting event was appreciated by both the seniors and teens. The teens shared their feelings after spending the afternoon socializing, painting and eating with their new friends at Village Shalom.
“It is so admirable that the teens chose to spend their day off with our residents,” said Zenette Kearney, program manager at Village Shalom. “They were extremely respectful and friendly, and the residents really enjoyed their company.”
KCteen is an organization of young Kansas City Jews who find fun ways to explore their heritage while giving back to the larger community. It welcomes all teens, grades 9 through 12, regardless of their background or affiliation.
Those with questions or wishing to get involved can email and follow @KCteen on Instagram.
