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Senior to Senior

Bridging Generations Through Connection and Service 

“Senior to Senior program logo featuring two stylized figures in navy and red standing side by side, symbolizing intergenerational connection and mentorship.”

The Agua Fria High School District’s Senior to Senior program is a signature initiative that connects graduating high school seniors with senior adult mentors from the West Valley community. Established in Fall 2022, the program brings together students from all five AFUHSD high schools and community retirees through meaningful monthly engagement, leadership development, and service.

What began as a pilot program has grown into a districtwide effort involving more than 80 participants annually, with strong partnerships through the Goodyear PebbleCreek Rotary, Verrado Rotary, and other community leaders. Senior to Senior is rooted in one powerful belief: when generations come together, everyone grows.

What the Program Does

Through a structured “Family” model, students and adult mentors build authentic relationships while participating in monthly themed experiences, including:

  • Community service projects such as bed building with Sleep in Heavenly Peace

  • Read Across America Day with local elementary students

  • Career and Technical Education showcases

  • Friendsgiving and relationship-building events

  • VIP access to district athletic, arts, and graduation celebrations

Each event is designed to strengthen empathy, leadership, communication, and civic responsibility while welcoming community members into our schools in meaningful ways.

The Impact

Senior to Senior has demonstrated measurable success:

  • 80+ annual participants

  • 90%+ attendance rate at monthly events

  • A maintained waitlist of adult community members

  • Growth in student confidence, leadership skills, and professional communication

  • Increased community presence inside our classrooms and school events

Students gain mentorship, workplace readiness practice, and exposure to life experiences beyond their own. Adult participants report renewed purpose, connection, and fulfillment through guiding the next generation.

A Living Model of Community

Senior to Senior reflects AFUHSD’s commitment to creating choice, crafting character, and cultivating community. It is more than a program. It is a bridge between generations, a model for intergenerational engagement, and a growing legacy within the West Valley.

Interested in getting involved?         

Two Senior to Senior program participants standing together and smiling, representing community mentorship and partnership.


Contact:
Melinda Marchese
Director of Communications & Community Initiatives
mmarchese@aguafria.org
(623) 932-7033

Community Lead:
Mary Kay Utecht
Goodyear Pebble Creek Rotary 

Learn More, View the full Senior to Senior program overview and supporting materials here:

“Comprehensive PDF describing Agua Fria High School District’s Senior to Senior program, a districtwide initiative connecting high school seniors with community retirees through monthly events, mentorship, and service projects. Includes program overview, structure, annual calendar, impact data, leadership team, and supporting materials.”

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