WARSAW — “The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person,” a quote by Andy Rooney was shared by Brynn Durecki, a participant in Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy. She presented her Project Proud program “Regeneration,” during the KYLA graduation ceremony Wednesday evening, May 4.

Brynn Duecki crated the “Regeneration” program.

This project bridges the generational gap between the younger and older members of the community. Durecki contacted Miller’s Merry Manor and Baker Youth Club to participate. “It allows children to interact with the elderly through activities — games, crafts or other endeavors involving touch, sight, smell and hearing,” she stated.

Additionally the program assists with improved memory and well being of the elderly. While the program is beneficial to the elderly, it is beneficial to the children who are learning to respect and bond with the elderly.

Durecki shared what prompted the project. Her grandparents resided in Michigan and shortly after Thanksgiving they became ill and could no longer care for themselves. “They moved in with my family and have made a significant impact on my life.” Durecki said, due to the residency distance, she had never been close to her grandparents. “In the short time they have been with us, I have learned so much from them. I’ve learned how important family is, how different the world is now than back in their day. The experience they share is priceless.”

Durecki said society overlooks the elderly and through research, she learned there is a correlation between the lack of social interaction and the development of depression and death. She found uniting two opposite age spectrums has shown to make a difference

The project began Jan. 28 and is held every Thursday. “I can tell you they are the most kind and simultaneously honest people at the same time,” she said. She hopes to continue the program over the summer with an ultimate goal to allow the program to grow.

“The response has been overwhelming,” she said. “The residents and children are enjoying the program,” adding the children are learning about respect and compassion.

Durecki shared what she has learned — ability to be a leader, communication skills, time management, not to procrastinate and perseverance. “I’ve learned so much about respect and compassion, being able to relate to people from another generation.

“Through the program I’ve learned wisdom and knowledge, that what the elders have they can share with us … KYLA is a way to cultivate a new generation of compassionate and promising new leaders.”