These Ontario residents sparked an unlikely friendship and they owe it all to a green bench

Cecile Wilkinson had always dreamt of having grandchildren to share her wisdom and stories with. This dream became a reality in June when she met 13-year-old Matthew Wilder through Schlegel Villages’ green bench initiative.

Sitting on a green bench at the library branch in Tecumseh, Ont., Wilkinson and Wilder struck up a conversation that led to an instant connection. Wilkinson, an 83-year-old resident at The Village of Aspen Lake in Windsor, shared stories of her life and her trip to Walt Disney World, sparking Wilder’s interest.

Since their initial meeting, Wilder and his mom have been visiting Wilkinson at her care home, where they laugh and talk just like a grandmother and grandson would. The bond between them has grown stronger with each visit, and Wilkinson expresses how much she enjoys Wilder’s company.

The green bench initiative, started by Schlegel Villages about a decade ago, aims to bridge the generation gap by encouraging conversations between seniors and younger community members. Jenny Brown, director of recreation at The Village of Aspen Lake, believes that celebrating the wisdom of the elderly is essential for creating a vibrant community.

Watching Wilkinson and Wilder’s relationship blossom, Brown couldn’t be happier. She hopes that their connection will inspire meaningful moments between people, just like the one they share. The mobile green bench, donated to the Essex County Library by Schlegel Villages, will be moving between different branches in the region to promote community building and understanding.

For Wilkinson, Wilder’s companionship has been a source of joy and comfort, especially since the passing of her husband. She expresses how much Wilder’s presence has changed her life for the better, making her feel valued and appreciated. In return, Wilder sees Wilkinson as a cool grandma, and she affectionately calls him a cool grandson.

Their heartwarming bond exemplifies the power of intergenerational connections and the importance of listening to the stories and wisdom of the elderly. As the green bench continues to facilitate these meaningful interactions, more friendships like Wilkinson and Wilder’s are sure to blossom, enriching the lives of those involved.