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ture .”

The handwritten notes were such a hit at SpringRidge that Zest Director Cindy Foster decided to pay it forward , encouraging residents to write their own letters to children at Lowrie Elementary School . The community has an ongoing partnership with Lowrie , with students visiting throughout the school year for intergenerational programs and a living history project .

Sharron , who relocated to Spring- Ridge from Kansas seven months ago , has a great love for children and wanted to share words of hope and encouragement in light of the challenges of the past year .

“ The pandemic has affected all of us ,” she explained . “ Although there is technology such as video calls and texting , everyone can appreciate a handwritten note . I shared information about myself and reminded the children things will get better .”

Neighbor Sue Hand has a special connection to Lowrie , having previously participated in the living history assignment . The fourth graders interviewed her to learn about her life , career and family and presented her with a keepsake portfolio .

“ We really got to know the kids ,” she said . “ They are bright-eyed and ask very meaningful questions . You could tell the students were in awe of us and loved the aspect of working with older people . They think we know everything !”

Sue understands how challenging it is not to see friends and thinks it ’ s been especially tough on the younger generation who has had to make major lifestyle changes while continuing their education .

“ When Cindy asked if I wanted to write a letter , I was happy to join the project ,” she explained . “ I told the kids to keep their spirits up and try to maintain a daily schedule that includes their school work , enjoyable exercise and virtual contact with their friends . I reminded them the pandemic will be over soon and we ’ ll get through this together .”

“ I told the kids to keep their spirits up and try to maintain a daily schedule that includes their school work , enjoyable exercise and virtual contact with their friends . I reminded them the pandemic will be over soon and we ’ ll get through this together .”

— Sue Hand

A few of the other touching messages to the students included :

� “ Better days are coming for all of us . I find something good in every day ; you can do the same . Be your best .”

� “ I know it ’ s difficult for you young students because you are not physically in school . Everything is going to work out for you . Just study hard using the visual arts . It is very important that you work hard in the 4th grade . I remember my 4th grade teacher from 80 years ago . I ’ m glad you have the computers and telephones

to keep in touch with your school friends and can even chat on Zoom .”

� “ A few things I ’ ve learned in my 81 years : Tell the truth , forgive and allow others to forgive you no matter how hard . Caring for , sharing with , and loving others brings great joy . Allow yourself to be loved . Remember always , in humility , that you are needed , your work is needed , and your presence is needed by others . In some way , everyone is your brother and sister . So , blessings to you today and during all of your life .”

� “ You ’ re special because you ’ ve been a 4th grader during the first pandemic in over 100 years ! You ’ ll remember this year when you ’ re as old as I am ( 92 ). The good old days will be here again soon . Hurray for that !”

The SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive menu of lifestyle options , including CARFaccredited independent living as well as assisted living and memory care services . For more information or to schedule a personal tour , please call 503-446-6250 or visit www . Spring- RidgeatCharbonneau . com .