Dickinson College has added a new community service organization, bringing the total number of community service organizations to 15. Senior Companions, co-coordinated by Sloane Fowkes ’13 and Orli Segal ’15, serves the senior citizens who reside at Claremont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Carlisle. The service organization was formed with the goal to “create one-on-one relationships with the seniors at Claremont and to bring a youthful vibe to the center,” described Segal in an e-mail. “Our goal is to cheer them up on their bad days and also help make a connection between our generation and theirs. I think it also gives the students a wonderful opportunity to learn about the seniors and their lives,” commented Fowkes.

When asked what prompted the formation of a new group, Segal answered, “Many of the community service programs involve children or teens, and we thought this was the best way to reach out to a different type of community- perhaps engaging more students who don’t feel comfortable working with kids.” Fowkes has worked with senior citizens since high school and wanted to shed light on a portion of the Carlisle community that is often neglected. “I know that one thing that is hard for the elderly is that they can often get lonely and sad. I wanted to do something to help the elderly and that is when I came up with the idea of matching up seniors with students,” Fowkes explained.

During weekly visits to Claremont, the volunteers chat, play board games, read to, or help the seniors enhance their computer skills. Right now, the organization is brand new and only has six volunteers, but is looking to expand in the future. “Giving back to the community, especially to the members of society who have already ‘given’ to our society, is an important part of being a member of a community,” Segal said. Fowkes added, “My favorite part about being in Senior Companions is talking with the seniors and learning about their lives. The stories that they tell are precious and very inspirational. Every time I visit my buddy, they remind me of what the important things are in life and to just live life to the fullest.”

If you are interested in joining Senior Companions or want more information email Sloane Fowkes (fowkess@dickinson.edu) or Orli Segal (segalo@dickinson.edu).