John Claude Shaffer developed and implemented an Elder Outreach program that helps brighten the lives of elder residents in eight retirement communities. He is passionate about helping others, especially our elders.

Travel restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic prevented visits with his own grandmother in California, with whom he had a close relationship. Sparked by this experience, John empathized with those who also might be isolated and feeling lonely. He felt there was a need to connect his generation with those most affected by the pandemic. Consequently, he pulled together a cadre of his peers to sponsor a letter-writing drive. “We began with students writing letters and delivering them on holidays to two local retirement homes,” John said. He then reached out to students in other schools. The program now has multiple chapters involving more than 350 students from seven high schools in Fairfax County.

As Covid restrictions eased, more people began delivering letters and in-person visits became possible. John soon realized there could and should be much more to the Elder Outreach program. The letter-writing campaign morphed into students making in-person visits to socialize with the residents, organize crafts and activities, and deliver musical and dance performances. “Inter-generational activities among students and the elderly not only add to the quality of life of retirement home residents, but also provide opportunities for students to learn from the wisdom and experience of an earlier generation,” he said. One of his favorite memories is when elder residents yelled, "Encore! Encore!" as he finished playing Chopin's Étude Op. 10 No. 3 in front of elderly residents at Heatherwood Retirement Center. John noted, “Seeing the smiles on their faces and their spirits uplifted was one of the most gratifying experiences of my life."

John would like to see enhanced interactions between his generation and the elderly and hopes that more young people will involve themselves. He wants to solidify the Elder Outreach program so that it will continue to exist for years to come.