ACS teams with local high school on “Mardi Gras” themed event for seniors

By Hailey Zimmerman

A touch of Mardi Gras came to Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) last week.

Amherstburg Community Services collaborated with North Star High School last Thursday for a Mardi

Gras-themed event. The afternoon started off with some jambalaya and cornbread. The North Star Band was present and played many songs to which the seniors danced. The band brought excitement for the crowd, and gave a great performance for all those watching.

Kathy DiBartolomeo, executive director with ACS, explained that one of the benefits of having events involving the seniors and the students, is the connection made between the two generations.

“It was fantastic watching the intergenerational relations made between the two completely different generations. I think it’s a great asset to our collaborations with the school,” said DiBartolomeo.

ACS holds events to keep senior citizens active.

“There is always a different theme for these events,” said DiBartolomeo.

ACS doesn’t just host feasts for the seniors, but also other events for the seniors, such as bingo, and dance classes. There’s always something to do for the seniors at the ACS center.

Amherstburg Community Services and North Star plan to do more collaborations in the future. ACS is organizing a chili fundraiser this Thursday (Feb. 23) and North Star is donating a vegetarian chili. Lisa Voakes’ civics class at the school will also be visiting the center with her class in order to learn about community involvement.

“And I would be remiss not to mention the many food bank drives the students, teachers and administration held for us this past holiday season,” said DiBartolomeo.

There is still plenty of time for North Star and ACS to collaborate again, she indicated.

“We are excited to see what the remainder of the school year holds for an ongoing and new level of connecting with the student community,” said DiBartolomeo.