St. Louis seniors have seen it all, in good times and bad, and they have much to offer in terms of wisdom and experience. They have lived through world conflicts, economic downturns, social upheaval and other tough challenges. Now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, some are putting their talents to work for the good of others.

A group of about 15 residents at the Friendship Village retirement community in Sunset Hills dusted off their sewing machines this summer to create 1,000 free cloth masks for residents, staff members and their families. Community life services director Bobbie Liverar says several women were at their machines for days sewing the colorful masks. “Some of the residents donated material and elastic, and our creative arts studio provided supplies as well,” she explains. “We had a small army of women at their machines—our own Rosie the Riveter team.”

Liverar says the women enjoyed the effort and felt energized to be making a contribution during a difficult time. “Our residents have been awesome about banding together during the pandemic,” she notes. “Helping others is very important to them.” She says some of the women spent several hours sewing each day, and one even brought out a beautiful antique Singer machine that hadn’t seen the light of day in a while. “Even though some of them had given up sewing years ago, they really felt motivated to use their skills again,” Liverar says.

Fay Weber, one of the mask makers, says the effort was personally rewarding. “I like it when someone says they need something done,” she notes. “It’s nice to feel wanted and needed.” Weber sewed about 100 of the masks and says each one took around 20 minutes to complete.

The community’s residents have been connecting and lifting spirits in other ways as well. Liverar says they have sent cards and letters to troops deployed overseas, and they recently partnered with a local 8th grade class to exchange correspondence about personal experiences.

“Residents also have been very aware of the emotional needs of their neighbors here at home,” she adds. “Many have made a point to reach out to others, especially those who are having a difficult time. They have been checking in on each other via phone and video, and it’s been inspiring to watch. I love that our seniors have become tech-savvy and master

There are many ways seniors can share their knowledge and talents via videoconference during a crisis like COVID-19. If your local school or nonprofit doesn’t yet have a program to partner with retirees, consider asking them to establish one. Here are some Zoom-friendly activities that work well in a socially distanced world.

  • Tutoring/study sessions
  • Sharing about life experiences
  • Video ‘pen pal’ correspondence
  • Reading to kids or shelter animals
  • Playing music for or with students
  • Travel talks
  • Trivia games

Pictured at top: Resident Fay Weber at her sewing machine
Photo courtesy of Friendship Village