June 2024

We hosted a several green bench programs in June for the #ElderWisdom initiative, a heartwarming and impactful program celebrating Seniors Month in Ontario. Schlegel Villages, in collaboration with a variety of libraries across the province, invites community members to engage in meaningful conversations with seniors on the iconic green bench.

What is #ElderWisdom?

The #ElderWisdom initiative aims to combat ageism and honor the invaluable contributions of our senior community members. By creating spaces where people of all ages can come together to share stories, wisdom, and life experiences, we foster intergenerational connections and promote a more inclusive society.

Thank you

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the #ElderWisdom campaign a success! To the Host Libraries, your warm welcome and support created the perfect setting for our green bench conversations. To the Village team members, your dedication and hard work built strong community relationships and made these events possible. To the community members, your engagement and willingness to take a seat on the green bench helped bridge generational gaps and foster meaningful connections. And most importantly, to the residents of Schlegel Villages, thank you for sharing your incredible stories, lived experiences, and invaluable wisdom. Your contributions have touched countless hearts and minds. Together, we’ve celebrated the richness of elder wisdom and strengthened our communities. Thank you all!



Get Involved

Engaging in conversations with seniors is a rewarding way to enrich your life and build meaningful connections. Throughout the year, we encourage you to take the time to sit down with the elders in your community, listen to their stories, and share your own. These interactions not only foster mutual understanding and respect but also help combat ageism and strengthen community bonds.

As we look forward to next year, we are excited to announce our 10th anniversary campaign on the green bench. Join us in celebrating a decade of wisdom and connection by participating in our special events. Your involvement makes a difference, and we can’t wait to see you next year on the green bench!

Together, let’s continue to honor the wisdom of our elders and create lasting intergenerational connections.


Where in Canada should the #ElderWisdom green benches visit?


Video from 2019

General Questions
Alexandra Amey, Project Coordinator
alexandra.amey@schlegelvillages.com

Media Inquiries
Ted Hudson
519-496-5984
Ted.Hudson@schlegelvillages.com

“The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders.”

Ron Schlegel

These events are brought to you by:

Schlegel Villages Retirement and Long Term Care Communities