The California Assisted Living Association (CALA) recently announced Eskaton as the winner of its Innovations in Quality award for the intergenerational program 'Kids Connection'.

Eskaton partners with local schools to bring nearly 650 elementary school children together with 'buddies' residing in senior living communities. Students and seniors enjoy reading books, doing arts projects, signing songs and much more. "This is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding educational programs in which I have been involved," said one teacher, noting these relationships transcend cultural, economic and generational barriers.

The program began in 2009 and has since shown dramatic, positive results for residents, while advancing learning skills for students. "This is not just an opportunity for kids to entertain the elderly," said Eskaton Senior Vice President COO Betsy Donovan. "It's an opportunity for true engagement and the development of real relationships."

Click here to read the entire press release on the Business Journal website.