The spirit of the Stoneridge Creek community extends far beyond its 50-acre campus. A case in point is the Love and Second Chances intergenerational initiative. More than a dozen residents partnered with students from California High School to carefully hand-tie blankets for donation to the local pet adoption program in San Ramon, California.
The partnership began when a student from California High School inquired about volunteer opportunities at the Pleasanton retirement community. Together, the two groups decided to assist the Love and Second Chances organization, which holds a special place in the hearts of many Stoneridge Creek seniors who have adopted fur babies from them.
Stoneridge Creek is a pet-friendly community where pet ownership is widespread and plays a significant role in the social life of residents, further fostering compassion and camaraderie within the community.
The two groups started meeting at the Pleasanton retirement community in early 2025 to create blankets for the shelter dogs. During their first meeting, the group made more than two dozen blankets.
Melody Chen, founder and president of Love and Second Chances, told the Pleasanton Weekly that these donations are significant to the organization.
“The blankets have been amazing because a lot of these dogs come with nothing,” Chen said. “The blankets go with them to foster homes and leave with them to their forever homes.”
Residents like Linda Godbier say she was motivated to join because of the intergenerational camaraderie.
“I’ll [make blankets] just because I enjoy … doing it with the kids,” Godbier said to The Pleasanton Weekly. “Especially because the kids have a purpose, and if we didn’t show up to help them, whatever they’re striving for wouldn’t be accomplished.”
Stoneridge Creek recognizes the importance of intergenerational activities not only for residents but also for younger generations. Recent studies from the National Institute on Aging show that activities like these blanket-making events enhance brain health by fostering social connections, promoting a sense of purpose and improving the mental well-being of participants.
Susan Filice, Stoneridge Creek’s Life Enrichment Director, echoed this sentiment in a McKnight’s Senior Living article, emphasizing the mutual benefits of intergenerational interaction. She noted the students’ infectious enthusiasm and the rewarding experience for residents in giving back. Filice also pointed out that these gatherings help dispel misconceptions about senior living communities, showcasing the vibrant environment at Stoneridge Creek.
“We are incredibly proud of our residents for their kindness and dedication to this meaningful cause. This partnership with California High School and Love and Second Chances truly exemplifies the caring heart of our Stoneridge Creek community,” Filice said.
The handmade blankets are donated to foster dogs as well as those with pets who are also experiencing homelessness. Additionally, any worn blankets are repurposed into toys, showcasing a thoughtful approach to resourcefulness.
“Their program to work with the senior community is such an inspiring one that brings two communities together to make a difference. The effort of the students makes a huge difference in rescue, and we are so proud of the dedication and compassion from this program and those involved,” Chen said.
Explore Our Engaged, Pet-Friendly Community
Are you ready to witness the engaging and purposeful lifestyle that so many of the Stoneridge Creek residents enjoy each day? From resident-run clubs to meaningful community involvement, such as this blanket-making project, our Life Plan Community offers a fulfilling lifestyle through each stage of life.
Here you can enjoy a variety of available floor plans that suit your desired retirement lifestyle. So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a personalized visit to see our beautiful campus, meet our team and residents and learn more about our pet-friendly community today.
