Bessie’s Hope Legacy provides online courses designed for youth of all ages, preschool through high school, families, and adults, including healthcare professionals and students, as well as family caregivers for an older loved. The education and training enable informed, enjoyable interaction with the geriatric population (older people.)

Our inspiration and knowledge come from Bessie’s Hope, a nonprofit organization that enhanced the lives of thousands of older people living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities through bringing generations together in mutually rewarding relationships. In 1993 Linda Holloway and Sharron Brandrup created volunteer programs that involved the entire community, and during their 30-yr history, thousands of youth and adults benefitted in the life-transforming work.

The following societal issues and solutions were cornerstones for the success of Bessie’s Hope and are continuing with Bessie’s Hope Legacy.

• Ageism toward older adults
  
• Bullying among youth
  
• 60% of nursing home elders receive NO personal visitors
  
• Lack of informed, meaningful interaction with individuals who have Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia
  
• Opportunities to build social/emotional intelligence in youth
  
• Additional geriatric training and communication tools for caregivers, both professionals and family members
  
• Opportunities for nursing home and assisted living elders to feel valued again, as they share their wisdom and wonderful stories