Evanston Seniors Learning to Fill in the Gaps from High Schoolers

Samara and Halle Michael come to The Merion senior living community once a month for a unique teaching experience. The two 17-year-olds discuss sports, religion, drug culture and online dating with Evanston seniors residing at The Merion, who are on average six decades older than they are. No topic is off-limits for the Michael twins.

The “Fill in the Gap” presentations started at The Merion in 2017 as part of diverse programming at the senior living community to promote lifelong learning. The presentations are open discussions on carefully curated topics intended to allow the two generations to learn from each other. Recent statistics show intergenerational events such as “Fill the Gap” help demonstrate to the young organizers that seniors still have much to offer, and help seniors better understand and appreciate the younger generation. Events like this also help everyone share new and exciting experiences together.