WEST ORANGE, NJ - The Intergenerational Reading Exchange, or Gen-Lit program, wrapped up a successsful third year at the West Orange Public Library on May 1. 

The program was organized by the West Orange Department of Senior Services and funded by Grassroots Community Foundation. West Orange High School students were an integral part of the group, along with senior citizens in the community. Each month a children's book was selected that would evoke deep conversations between the students and seniors, connecting them across generational lines.

This month's book, "Kyoshi's Way," was about a grandfather and grandson who took a walk, opening the grandson's eyes to the world around him. The conversation was moderated by Senior Service director Laura Van Dyke, program assistant Noelia Perez, and Senior Livability coordinator Olive Ross. May has been designated as Older Americans Month, and attendees were treated to roses and snacks, thanks to Grassroots Community Foundationm who also selected the books. Each senior was able to take home one of the books that the group had read and discussed as well.

Both students and seniors agreed that getting to know one another, learning from one another, and talking about life's issues was a positive and hopeful experience for all involved, and plans were already underway to prepare for next year's Intergenerational Reading Exchange program. 

SEE ALL THE PHOTOS FROM THE INTERGENERATIONAL READING EXCHANGE HERE.

(Front row L-R) Program Assistant Noelia Perez, student Nayeli Rodriguez, Dagmar Hobson, students Grace Moran, Josephine Foglia, and Isabella Martinez, Elaine Corrao, Mark Mishell, WOHS Conflict Resolution and Student Affairs Coordinator Catherine Connors. (Rear, L-R) Senior Livability Coordinator Olive Ross, Director Laura Van Dyke, students Brianna Bailey, Allana Smith, and Chanel Feneus, Margaret and Richard O'Hara.