Planting Seeds of Connection: CODEWA Joins BINGO & Board Games with Senior Friends in Ohio

On October 4th, 2025, Community Development Watch (CODEWA) had the honor of participating in the Seeds of Caring – BINGO and Board Games with Senior Friends program in Hilliard, Ohio. This intergenerational event brought together children, families, and seniors for a joyful morning of games, conversation, and shared learning — a powerful reminder of the role that compassion and connection play in building inclusive communities.

Celebrating Community Across Generations

At the heart of the event was a simple yet powerful idea: bringing people of different ages together to share time, stories, and play. Participants enjoyed a vibrant selection of activities including:

• BINGO, UNO and puzzles, Connect 4, Classic board games and learning new ones

Through these games, seniors and young people exchanged stories, laughter, and perspectives — demonstrating how simple interactions can bridge generations and create lasting emotional impact.

At CODEWA, our mission is to empower children and youth to learn, grow, and thrive — not only academically, but socially and emotionally. Participating in this Seeds of Caring event aligns deeply with our core values and strengthens our work in three important ways:

1. Learning from U.S. Models of Intergenerational Engagement

Being part of a program that connects children with older adults showcased practical strategies for fostering empathy, social skills, and community responsibility — tools that we can adapt for our own youth mentorship and life-skills programs in Tanzania.

2. Reinforcing Our Commitment to Holistic Development

CODEWA believes that growth happens through relationships. This experience provided firsthand insight into how cross-generational interactions can build confidence, reduce loneliness, enhance communication skills, and nurture emotional intelligence in young people — all elements central to our mission.

3. Strengthening Our Global Perspective on Community Building

Seeing how organizations like Seeds of Caring mobilize families and volunteers to serve vulnerable populations inspires us as we continue expanding programs that bring together students, parents, teachers, and community leaders in Tanzania.

A Shared Vision for a Kinder, More Connected World

Seeds of Caring’s commitment to compassion mirrors CODEWA’s vision for Tanzania — a society where every child is inspired and empowered to achieve their dreams. Through this experience, we witnessed the transformative power of kindness in action.

As we return home to support children and youth across Tanzania, we carry with us the lessons learned, the warmth shared, and the reminder that meaningful change begins with simple acts of connection.

Thank You, Seeds of Caring

We extend our gratitude to Seeds of Caring, Event Leader Ciera, and the community at National Church Residences: Harmony Trace for their hospitality and partnership. Together, we are planting seeds of caring — across generations, across communities, and across borders.

About Seeds of Caring

Seeds of Caring empowers children to make a difference through hands-on service, social action, and community-building programs. Learn more at www.seedsofcaring.org.