The residents of Brookdale Senior Living Center got a visit today from the Midland High Freshman Bulldogs football team, who not only spent time with the residents sharing stories but also volunteered their time serving meals to them for the annual Thanksgiving lunch.
“They get excited, they like talking about when they went to high school. They like hearing about what they're doing now, especially sports. It's a lot different from when they went to school, so it's nice they get really excited about it... These boys are awesome. You know, they're out here talking to these residents and bringing in tables and they help us set everything up and decorate and, you know, they could all be sleeping in today,” said Elizabeth Karvonen, marketing director for Brookdale Midland.
The players say that it didn't take much convincing to get them to come out and lend not only a hand, but also an ear to the residents.
“We always try to help out the community and help out in any type of way... Other kids like would be out doing something else like having fun, going to parties, but we decide like we have like a free day, we get to come out and help these elders. I promise you like if I was, if I was in their spot right now, I would want this too. I would want to talk to football guys if I used to play football I would want to talk to the football guys, see how they're doing, see how their football program is going,” said Xavier Muro, freshman at Midland High.
The players say that a lot can be learned from talking to the older generation as well and that they should make the most of the time we have left with the residents.
“With time comes wisdom and you can't ever get enough of that and, you know God, has a plan for me. For you, for Xavier, for everyone, you know. And just with that, you know, he will show us the right way and he will help us do the right things. And you know, they've been through their life already, and all they want to try to do is help you and help guide you and help you find a way to just be the best person you possibly can be,” said Devin Rodriquez, another freshman at Midland High School.
Karvonen says that they’re open to inviting the Bulldogs back for the next Thanksgiving lunch.