Davidson College Pairs Students with Older Adults

Davidson College students and older adults in the Lake Norman area can form new friendships through a long-running program designed to connect generations.

The Adopt-A-Grandfriend program pairs Davidson College students with mature adults based on shared interests. The program is jointly sponsored by Davidson College and the Town of Davidson’s Parks & Recreation Department and is free for participants.

The program follows the college’s academic calendar, beginning in the fall, although registration remains open throughout the year. Participants complete a brief questionnaire to help organizers make matches based on common interests.

Once paired, grandfriends decide how they want to spend time together. Activities can include meeting for coffee, taking a walk, attending Davidson Wildcats games, visiting art shows or performances, or sharing a meal.

The program is intentionally open-ended, with the goal of developing friendships rather than assigning participants to a set schedule of activities. Optional group events are also offered during the year.

The program has been offered for years as a way to encourage connections between Davidson College students and older adults in the community.

Those interested in participating can register through the Town of Davidson Parks & Recreation Department by searching for “Adopt-A-Grandfriend” under programs. Participants must create a profile before registering.

For more information, contact Davidson Parks & Recreation at [email protected] or 704-892-3349.