Building Bridges Across Generations at Friendship Village Kalamazoo
On a recent episode of the Smart Aging™ Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nancy Kotarski, Life Enrichment and Funds Development Manager at Friendship Village Kalamazoo. With a background in theater, education, and recreation, Nancy brings a creative and dynamic approach to senior living programming. One of the areas she is most passionate about is intergenerational connection, and our conversation was full of inspiring stories that prove just how impactful these programs can be.
From Theater to Enrichment
Nancy’s path into senior living wasn’t a straight line. She began in theater management, then shifted into recreation and arts programming before becoming a certified teacher. That blend of creativity, structure, and teaching experience now shapes her work at Friendship Village. Whether through Reader’s Theater, music ensembles, or variety shows, her drama and arts background continues to influence the vibrant programming she develops.
Intergenerational Programs That Inspire
Friendship Village has developed a wide range of intergenerational initiatives that move far beyond the traditional “kids visit seniors” model.
- The Resilience Program pairs college students who have faced challenges with residents who share how they’ve overcome struggles in their own lives. These conversations are authentic, healing, and deeply meaningful for both sides.
- Middle School Interviews and Creative Projects give younger students the chance to learn about residents and then create something that tells their story. Projects have included picture books, dioramas, and even a personalized Monopoly board based on a resident’s life.
- Singing with Seniors, a program designed by a high school choir student, brings music training and performance into the community, showing how one student’s vision can spark lasting connections.
- Music Together in assisted living invites moms and babies to share music and movement with residents, creating some of the most joyful moments in the building.
Why These Programs Matter
Residents love sharing their life experiences, and students are often surprised to discover just how active and accomplished older adults are. These exchanges break stereotypes, build empathy, and often lead to long-term connections. Nancy shared how residents continue emailing with students after the official programs end, sometimes building relationships that last for years.
For students who may not have grandparents nearby, these experiences can be especially meaningful. For residents, they provide purpose, laughter, and the satisfaction of guiding a younger generation.
Lessons Learned
Of course, intergenerational programming isn’t without challenges. Scheduling with schools, coordinating spaces, and making sure activities are inclusive require careful planning. Teachers and program leaders work together to ensure residents can hear clearly, participate fully, and feel comfortable. The payoff, however, is well worth the effort.
Looking Ahead
Nancy is excited about keeping the momentum going and finding new ways to connect generations, including weaving technology into future programs. She dreams of even larger shared experiences, such as outings where seniors and students explore the world together. And as we laughed about on the podcast, a “translation class” between Gen Alpha slang and resident expressions might be the perfect next idea.
Final Thoughts
Friendship Village Kalamazoo proves that intergenerational programs can transform communities. They remind us that learning, creativity, and connection never stop at any age. When students and residents come together, everyone walks away with something new—whether it’s a story, a friendship, or a deeper understanding of resilience.
Listen to the Full Conversation
This article only scratches the surface of the inspiring work happening at Friendship Village Kalamazoo. To hear Nancy’s stories in her own words and discover even more ideas for intergenerational engagement, check out the Smart Aging™ Podcast. It’s available wherever you listen to podcasts.