BETHANY --- Last Thursday, the Southern Nazarene University Women's Soccer team and local non-profit, VillagesOKC, partnered to bring joy to the residents of The Grand Skilled Nursing and Therapy in Bethany.

On a beautiful October Thursday afternoon, The Grand residents ventured outside the complex to watch the Crimson Storm Women's Soccer team play a mixture of games. For additional enjoyment, The Grand staff handed out popcorn and drinks. VillagesOKC members were on hand to support and encourage all with recommended distancing and masks.

SNU Women's Soccer coach Julie Duncan said, "Some residents had not been outside for several months and were warmed by the sunshine and the enthusiasm of our girls. Two residents were particularly interested since they had played on a soccer team in their younger days. We thoroughly enjoyed our time this afternoon with the residents and the staff." One resident of The Grand said, "When I played soccer, I played all positions since I was not afraid of the ball. I appreciated getting to meet all of these fine young women and talk about soccer." 

Along with funds from a VillagesOKC sponsor, Thrivent Financial, the SNU Women's Soccer team purchased small usable items and presented these gifts for each of the nearly 100 Grand residents.  While the SNU athletes wait for the Spring season, teams are doing service projects like this throughout their community. Volunteering in partnership with local organizations such as VIllagesOKC provides an intergenerational connection that benefits all.