Vacation Programs
Each summer, our Old Friends can escape the noise of the city through our Vacation Program. We transport our Old Friends far from the noise of Chicago to a variety of country side locations. Volunteers and staff escort elders and join them as they chat, gather for a movie or game, sit in the sun, go on outings, and enjoy meals together. Nursing student volunteers assist our more frail seniors so they can enjoy the country setting. The memories of vacations remain with our seniors throughout the winter, reminding them of special times to come next summer.
Each spring and fall, our staff takes a small group of elders on an Overnight. These elders prefer a shorter stay than the weeklong vacations we offer.
Seniors exercise in the country air at Rochelle.
We treat our Old Friends who cannot leave their homes for a vacation to participate in Summer in the City, an outing specifically arranged for them (to parks, the zoo, and other sunny places). To those who are homebound, we bring special treats to celebrate summer indoors. This is a terrific volunteer opportunity, too – especially for interns.
Country Air & Comfy Arms
James, 94, was simply amazed when he spent his first week-long vacation with Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly.
The retired teacher says. “We went sightseeing, out for luncheons, fishing, and shopping.”
More important, however, James describes the experience as very warm and welcoming. From the very beginning, he made friends like Atlina, shown with James in the above photo, taken on the first day of their vacation.
“There were no strangers there,” he explains. “I’ve never been hugged so much. It was like everybody just opened their arms and pulled you in.”
For someone who is still grieving over his wife’s passing, James found the time spent on vacation very therapeutic. He has read about the power of touch and “the people provided that for me” during his trip.
“From that experience, I have the memories of all the activities, and I have new friends,” he adds. “I stay in touch with the people I met...”