Smiles sprouted on the faces of elderly residents at the Bowling Green Retirement Village on Monday while a group of first-graders visited for a community service day. 

“As a parent, I like that it teaches the children that it’s important to serve others, and let their light shine as children of God in the community,” said Stephanie Barr, a parent chaperone. 

The group of 16 students were visiting from Foundation Christian Academy during its third annual “Great Day in May.” During the day, students also visited other places where they could help out. That included a group of kindergartners visiting the Bowling Green Fire Department and a third-grade class visiting Chandler Park Assisted Living. 

First-grade teacher Shirley Solzman accompanied the class and called a bingo game between the students and seniors. While the older students visited the community, she said, 4-year-olds helped pull weeds around the school. 

“It just gives us a chance to get out,” and do something for others, she said. 

Village residents were given bags of sugar-free candy and American flag fans with Bible verses written on the back as gifts. They were also treated to the sounds of Garrett Barr’s violin. 

Garrett, a 7-year-old who’s been playing violin for three years, said the community service day “just makes people be happy.” 

First-grader Haleia Godby shared that happiness and enjoyed reading to the residents. 

“It makes me feel happy,” she said. “I love helping others.” 

Her mother, Gina Godby, said the event “lifts everybody up” and has even made the adults involved want to be better people. 

Brennon Abston, a 7-year-old from Franklin, learned a similar lesson. 

“It’s just nice to help other people,” he said. 

Resident Nancy Carveth smiled and laughed with the students as she helped them fill out their bingo cards. 

“It was wonderful,” she said. “It was all a surprise to us. We didn’t know.” 

Everyone was appreciative of the company.

“I think it means a lot to our residents,” said Kathy Granger, an activities director with Bowling Green Retirement Village. 

Fellow resident Susie Mills also enjoyed spending time with the kids. 

“They’re good children,” she said, adding she appreciated the public service. “They love to do it, too.”

— Follow education reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @aaron_muddbgdn or visit bgdailynews.com.