Joel Zou
My name is Joel Zou, and I am a high school student with a deep commitment to bridging the generational gap between youth and seniors. As the co-founder and vice president of public relations and special projects for Young Hearts and Old Souls, I have had the privilege of helping to create an organization that fosters meaningful connections across generations. Growing up, I saw firsthand how my grandmother, who often had to go outside to find someone to talk to, faced the challenge of social isolation. This experience opened my eyes to the importance of ensuring that seniors have regular, meaningful interactions with others, and it inspired me to take action.
In my role as vice president of public relations and special projects, I focus on organizing special events that bring joy and foster community among seniors. This includes organizing field trips, celebration parties, and cultural events that allow seniors to connect and share their heritage. For example, one of our recent initiatives was hosting a multicultural party where seniors from different ethnic backgrounds, such as Indian and Chinese communities, came together to share traditional foods and communicate in English. These events not only celebrate diversity but also help seniors from various backgrounds build friendships and feel a sense of belonging.
At Young Hearts and Old Souls, we believe in the power of connection to transform lives. One of our key initiatives is offering English and digital literacy classes for seniors, helping them overcome language barriers and engage more fully with the digital world. Additionally, we host social events, community outings, and arts activities designed to reduce social isolation and foster a sense of belonging among our senior participants. Through these efforts, I am proud to contribute to a community where seniors feel valued and connected, and where young people, like myself, have the opportunity to learn from the wisdom and life experiences of older generations.