Laughlin School Age program reaches out to Del Rio Rotary Village

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Desiree Economides
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Twenty-one children from Laughlin's School Age program visited residents of the Del Rio Rotary Village July 8 for an arts and crafts community service project.

Once a month, the School Age program participates in various projects, both on and off base, to teach the children the value of community service while helping those in need.

"We participate in community service through the School Age program to teach the kids to learn to do for others and to have them understand the importance of caring for others," said Pearlene Livingston, School Age Program assistant.

The children visit the village residents several times throughout the year and participate in activities varying from arts and crafts to singing and even delivering cookies they make.

"A lot of residents here really enjoy when the children visit and spend time with them. Many residents don't have family who live in the area so they don't get the opportunity to have much interaction with others," said Olga Perez, Del Rio Rotary Village site manager.

Residents agree that having the children come visit is a positive experience.

"We have a good time with the kids when they visit us. It is very fun," said Maria Rodriguez, resident of the village.

The experience is pleasant for more than the residents, Livingston said. The kids enjoy themselves as well.

"When we first started going to the Rotary Village some of the kids were shy, but the more they meet with the residents the more they get used to interacting with each other. Now, they are more open to being involved in the activities," said Livingston.

The Del Rio Rotary Village is a low-income, single bedroom housing development for elderly residents, 62 years-old and up.