Bessie’s Hope Legacy is a non-profit organization created in 2023 to carry forward and expand the work of Bessie’s Hope with the aim of reaching more people through digital training. Established in 1993, Bessie’s Hope was a unique, well-respected and award-winning organization for 30 years in the fields of intergenerational programs, senior services, youth services, volunteerism, and community service.
Our online courses provide opportunities to those who want to shine a light on the need to reinstate elders to their rightful place of honor, respect, and dignity as the wise ones in society. Knowledge comes from learning; wisdom comes from age and experiences.
Our online courses are designed for:
- School teachers who are seeking opportunities to fulfill volunteer community service requirements for their students.
- Leaders of youth groups of all ages, including boys and girls clubs, boy and girl scouts, youth at-risk, and church groups.
- Healthcare professionals and students
- Families and adults who want to have ongoing visits with nursing homes and assisted living elders who do not have regular visits (60% in nursing homes do not)
- Family members who are caregivers of their older loved ones
New online training modules coming soon! Sign up for more information.
Online Course(s)
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Bessie's Hope Legacy Teen Course (Early Access)
CourseIntergenerational Training For Teens: Working With Older Populations This training bridges gaps between teens and elders, particularly those with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia, to build empathy and combat ageism.
Purchase$9.95
Bessie’s Hope Legacy was founded to:
- Provide education on the societal detriments of ageism toward older people and how we all can create the needed change
- Promote meaningful intergenerational interaction and relationships
- Inspire people to be involved in our programs that have brought communities into nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Provide education and communication skills for better understanding and interaction with individuals who have Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia
The Bessie’s Hope Legacy online courses are designed for youth groups, families, and adults, including healthcare professionals and students and family caregivers of older people.
Testimonials
“This was fun. I can’t wait to come back. All kids need to do this!”
Middle School Boy - During the feedback session following the student's first visit to the nursing home.
“The elders need friends just like we do.”
First Grade Girl - Following one of the last visits to the nursing home for her classroom
“I grew up in violence and I thought violence was the only way. Bessie’s Hope and the elders helped me find a kinder and gentle me inside.”
16 yr-old boy from a residential treatment center for teens with behavioral issues
“I left the corporate world, went back to school and became an RN, working with the geriatric population. Thank you, Bessie’s Hope.”
Woman who volunteered in the Family and Elders Program and “adopted” a nursing home elder who had no other personal visitors
