How do we build communities where older adults are celebrated, not sidelined? Where stories are shared, relationships are reciprocal, and every person—resident or team member—is known and respected? This workshop explores a decade of learning from #ElderWisdom, a nationally recognized initiative from Schlegel Villages that brings these questions to life through intergenerational storytelling, public engagement, and culture transformation.

At the core of this movement is a simple green bench—and a powerful idea: that society has much to gain when we sit down and listen to the wisdom of our elders.

This 60-minute session will be co-led by Christy Parsons, VP of People; Melanie James and Amy Radford, Regional Directors of Recreation and Support Services. It will feature a mix of storytelling, video, practical strategies, and interactive learning circles. Participants will gain insights into the Wisdom of the Elder Signature Program—how it evolved from one event into a way of life across 18 long-term care and retirement Villages—and how that same spirit can be activated globally.

Participants will explore:

• How to combat ageism by elevating resident voices and integrating them into the heart of community life.

• How the aspiration to Foster Authentic Relationships supports culture change within long-term care by prioritizing human connection: “Know me. Respect me.”

• How Schlegel Villages nurtures relationships between residents and team members, seeing each as equal contributors to the community.

• How public storytelling installations like the Green Bench invite broader society into these conversations—challenging assumptions about aging and building bridges across generations.

Interactive components will include:

• Learning Circles at tables to reflect on how we honour the stories of those we serve—and those we work alongside.

• Story Spark Exercises that can be used with elders in any setting to uncover their wisdom, passions, and purpose.

• Media Showcase of Green Bench conversations from community visits—demonstrating how storytelling fosters connection, identity, and change.

The workshop will also introduce the concept of reciprocal mentorship—where both residents and team members grow through mutual learning. This model redefines traditional caregiving and HR strategies by recognizing that every person, regardless of role or age, has something to teach and something to learn.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how intergenerational programming can be integrated into team development, community engagement, and organizational strategy—helping to create environments where all people can age with dignity, purpose, and joy.

Whether you are a policy maker, program lead, elder care provider, or advocate, this session will equip you with stories, tools, and inspiration to champion age-friendly, relationship-rich environments in your own work.

Christy Parsons is the Vice President of People at Schlegel Villages responsible for fostering a workplace culture and environment where team members feel valued. Her focus is on team member engagement and how the ultimate team member experience can be cultivated to position Schlegel Villages as an employer of choice in senior living. She supports the human resources and labour relations team that provide direct support to 18 long term care and retirement communities that make up Schlegel Villages consisting of over 6000 team members.

 

Christy has worked professionally with older adults for over 25 years and has gained extensive experience in both long-term care and retirement living through a number of key senior leadership roles. Her education background includes a diploma from Conestoga College in Recreation Leadership, a Bachelor of Adult Education degree from Brock University and the Strategic Human Resources Management Program from University of Toronto- Rotman School of Management.