The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades runs a “Grand-Friend” program that encourages intergenerational interactions between seniors and young children who attend programs at the Center. The program was launched by the JCC Senior Center Director Judi Nahary, who found research that suggests that these sorts of interactions invigorate the elderly, improve their cognitive abilities and vascular health, and even increase their life span. Since the program was launched, the staff has observed the warm and positive impact it is having on seniors, teachers and children alike.