A Letter from Liz

It all started in 2004…

My mother passed from our lives into her resting place. Through the years leading up to her passing our family grew into a broader family with the seniors at a long-term care facility, Brierwood Gardens. From September 2004 – December our hearts grew heavy for the elders we visited daily for close to 3 years.

After much prayer we decided to try and solve the problem of social isolation by sending a classroom to visit the seniors, and thought that Brierwood wouldn’t be the only place where seniors were lonely, therefore we extended invitations to all the facilities and schools that year.

To our surprise, in September 2005 we had 22 classes signed up to visit 9 senior facilities. Coordinating the visits for schools and facilities within walking distance was and still is our greatest challenge in order to minimize busing expenses.

There were many people along the way that helped shape SKIP, give what we do a name, and have our programs develop into many diverse styles. Rotary-Sunrise stepped up to help support us in many ways, and other private individuals donated generously. Nancy Romenenko (YMCA) passed on a valuable message to me, and that was to never forget the reason why SKIP started.

I could name many more contributors, but that would limit the message behind this reflection.
We are growing, and it is painful, just as many charities experience this. Communities from around the country and world are reaching out to us to learn more of what we do. After piloting SKIP-in-a-Box in Windsor and doubling their classes this fall, I have to say we are seeing some fruit from our labours.

This season of growth has led me to challenge our community in owning SKIP in their neighbourhoods. Look around, take notice of the elders that may need a brief chat, cut their grass, rake leaves or shovel snow. Maybe even ask if they need anything at the store or offer a ride to get groceries.

SKIP isn’t anything new, intergenerational living is natural for many cultures and it enriches the shaping of the younger generations. Being together actually gives all of us purpose and a sense of belonging, while contributing to the community we call home.

- Liz Martorano, Co-Founder of SKIP