Senior Care First.

Aditi began Senior Care First Foundation at the age of 16 after she lost her grandfather who had dementia. 

Aditi notes, "The moment my grandfather died to the moment the pandits chanted at his funeral inspired me to reflect on myself." She continues to she that he had been a distant yet significant part of her life. She knew him through a multitude of stories her parents shared with her about his accomplishments. Nevertheless, in his eulogies, a common theme of warmth was expressed. "Hearing about my grandfather’s selflessness taught me the value of altruism in my own life." To carry his memory, she began volunteering at her local senior home, Aegis Living Marymoor. 

The seniors she met were beyond intriguing. They had many years of experience, yet continued to be humble and to share their appreciation towards others. She soon realized simply being present made a difference in their lives. "One night, while closing out with a movie in the theatre, I met a resident who said he was new to the facility. Reality hit me in my conversation with him. He described how his family had left him there and would most likely only visit him on the holidays, which was only a few times per year." In her months volunteering at the senior center, never once had she heard how lonely it could get for the residents.

Inspired and in honor of her grandfather, she began Senior Care First. Through her love for the residents at the senior center, she produced handwritten cards of warmth and appreciation paired with chocolates (since she knows how much seniors love their sweets). She brought materials to write cards to her school’s National Honor Society chapter, the City Youth Council meeting, and local elementary schools. A couple of friends tagged along to hand the cards out at senior centers around Washington. Senior Care First Foundation was quickly noticed by a local newspaper bringing in several more Washington students to write cards with her. What started with 50 cards soon became over 5000.

The number of people that supported this effort to brighten a resident’s day was astounding and she is eternally grateful. This could not have been possible without the wonderful volunteers.