Western Academy of Beijing's 60+ group received national recognition for its work with senior citizens and is continuing its work with newly inspired efforts within the community.

WAB student Dale Zhong was invited to a national conference to present information about the work of the 60+ group, information that was the highlight of the entire event. Representatives from more than 30 media outlets were on hand, and many published stories about the work 60+ has done to connect with our community's older folks.

At the event, Dale represented WAB at the initiation of the "Letters to Parents" project, in which people have the chance to write caring and loving letters to the elderly. On October 26, Dale and other 60+ group members visited the Senior Citizen Home of Laiguangying to deliver the hand-written notes directly to the residents. They also performed songs, played musical instruments and even put on a magic show.

Dale is the founding member of WAB's 60+ group. When thinking about a service activity, he noticed that there were groups for under-privileged children, migrant workers and even animals, but there was no such group caring for the elderly.

As a young boy, Dale remembers his great grandmother as his first true friend. And when she passed away, he was very sad. "Ever since then, I have wanted to do something to take care of other elderly people in my community the same way I took care of my great grandmother," he said. "Looking back, I now know that members of 60+ not only work to help elderly people, but we also learn from their wisdom in the process." He started by inviting his friends to join the group, and after sharing their mission was able to recruit more members.

One of the unique features about the group is the creativity members put into planning events for the elderly and for fundraising at the school. One highlight event is a planking competition, where students can donate money to nominate other students to participate. Planking is a core exercise in which a person balances on the ground using their toes and elbows, which is a fun way to get students engaged and raise money. They use the money to purchase things like air conditioners, clothes, fruits and, most recently, gloves for the old folks with whom they spend time.

Care for the elderly is traditionally a highly valued characteristic of the Chinese culture. Especially now, as the elderly population in China is growing rapidly, the topic is often talked about. Dale recognizes that and sees his group's value in the China context, but for him, it goes beyond just a national issue.

"Chinese culture indeed places a high value on elderly care," he said. "But I think 'elderly care' should not be a term that is only associated with China or Chinese culture, because we are citizens of the world, so we all have responsibilities to take care of the ones who took care of us. It's a natural thing to do."

Since the start of the 60+ group, Dale has helped its popularity spread the high school and middle school. A high school senior, Dale is now beginning the process of picking new student leaders who will help ensure the group's continued success after he graduates.

The "Letters to Parents" project is an on-going nationwide effort, and Dale sees this as a great way to express respect and care for our parents, grandparents and other old folks in the community.

"The elderly population is increasing at a rapid rate in China and in many other parts of the world. I think this activity is very relevant not just to everybody who lives in China, but to all citizens of the world," he said.