A remarkable partnership is flourishing in the Huntley community, bringing together the rich life experiences of Sun City residents and the energy of local youth. What began as a strategic goal by the Sun City Board of Directors to deepen ties with Huntley High School (HHS) has grown into a successful collaboration involving students, teachers, volunteers, and residents throughout the district.
Sun City’s Sew-n-Sew members visited HHS to host a hands-on crocheting workshop. Beyond sharing their skills, they gifted the students with hand-crocheted bags equipped with starter tools. The result was immediate; one student was so inspired by the experience that he decided to launch his own personal crochet project over spring break. Jaclynn Avner, industrial sewing instructor, is so grateful that these volunteers are sharing their skills with her students. In her education internship class, Sun City’s retired educators had the opportunity to mentor students, helping with lesson plans and sharing their classroom experiences.
“Their perspective is so valuable to the up-and-coming educators,” Avner stated.
HHS students visit the Sun City Railroad Club.
The partnership is also taking on high-tech dimensions. Sun City railroad club members are currently working alongside architectural students to 3D-print models of downtown Huntley buildings. Con Moore, class of 2026, one of the creators of the 3D models, stated: “Being involved in the creation of the 3D models of the downtown Huntley buildings is our way of leaving a legacy from Huntley High School Engineering Academy to the residents of Huntley.” Meanwhile, other tech-minded retirees are utilizing their professional backgrounds to serve as judges for the Engineering Academy’s Design & Development Capstone presentations.
Connections are thriving outside the traditional classroom as well. The high school’s fishing coach has teamed up with the Sun City Anglers club for joint activities. For those involved, these programs are about much more than just passing the time. They are about forming links between different eras of American life. “These generations are building meaningful connections,” says Dolores Fischer, a Sun City resident and dedicated volunteer at the high school. “Whether guiding students in career exploration, sharing life experiences, mentoring, serving as Pen Pals, or reflecting on their military service, these partnerships create a lasting and meaningful impact. They enrich the educational and personal growth of students while also leaving a profound and rewarding impression on the residents of Sun City.”
While the large-scale programs are impressive, it is often the individual relationships that leave the deepest mark. A key connection grew from the Oral History project at Heinemann Middle School, coordinated by teacher Todd Ary. Through the project, middle school student Kevin Elias was paired with Sun City resident Bob Olesen. What started as a standard school assignment quickly became a significant milestone for Elias.
David Applegate works with engineering students on a 3D modeling project of downtown Huntley.
“I had the greatest conversation with Bob,” Elias shared. “He was so calm and told me all about growing up.” During their chat, Elias mentioned his increasing interest in golf. Moving well beyond the scope of the school project, Bob put together a complete set of golf clubs for the young student to help him pursue the game.
For Elias, the generous gift was just as meaningful as the mentorship itself. “I love this sport now,” he said, thinking about the experience. “And that conversation was the best moment of my life.”
A unique letter-writing initiative is proving that important connections can span generations, even without a major on-site volunteer commitment. Renae St. Clair, HHS teacher and Medical Academy coordinator, launched the Pen Pal Program, pairing HHS Medical Academy students with local community residents. Through the traditional art of handwritten letters, the participants narrated stories, built friendships, and bridged the age gap. The correspondence helps students enhance essential interpersonal and sympathetic skills required for their future medical careers. The rewarding experience culminated on April 27, when the pen pals finally had the opportunity to meet face-to-face, celebrate their bonds, and share a special moment together.
Sun City resident Mary Kozy meets with her pen pal.
St. Clair established the Basic Nursing Assistant Class Advisory Committee to launch an on-campus training program, eliminating the need for students to commute to McHenry County College (MCC). To ensure the program satisfies professional medical standards, St. Clair partnered with the Del Webb Nurses Club. This club of experienced nurses assists with the initial program development and provides ongoing support to both instructors and students. St. Clair said, “This relationship doesn’t stop there. The Del Webb Nurses Club has also helped as mock patients for our Physical Education Physical Therapy Class, they have come in to be guest speakers to a small group of students in the college and careers office, they have come for Entrance Interviews and Senior Exit Presentations for the Medical Academy, and they have provided scholarships to two prospective nurses from our Medical Academy.”
Other Charter Clubs have also provided financial support; the Sun City Band gave a check to the HHS Booster Club, while the Del Webb Nurses Club, Future Nurses, Sunflower Garden Club of Sun City, and Tall Oaks Tennis Club awarded scholarships to HHS students. Laura Martens, Huntley High School College & Career Counselor, said, “The generosity of Del Webb continues to have a significant impact on our community. By investing in scholarships for our high school seniors, they’re not just supporting education — they’re helping mold the future of our next generation. We’re extremely grateful for their devotion to our students and their success.”
There are so many opportunities to get involved. During recent holiday events, dedicated residents stepped up to support school activities, making certain that young families could fully engage together. Intergenerational learning took center stage at recent school events aimed at honoring local service members. Through breakfast gatherings, students had the unique opportunity to interview local veterans. This direct experience allowed the younger generation to learn history directly from those who lived it, encouraging strong admiration and understanding.
HHS Booster Deanna Reeves and student Kyle Wolf accept checks from the Sun City Concert Band.
The devotion to youth development reaches directly into classroom reading initiatives. Sun City residents are part of mentor programs, making a measurable difference in early literacy. By pairing enthusiastic mentors with young learners, these programs do more than improve reading skills — they build confidence, promote a love of books, and provide students with encouraging role models.
Local culinary talent recently faced off in an exciting smashed-burger contest. A Sun City retired chef served as a judge for the event, evaluating entries for flavor, technique, and presentation. The competition concluded with top honors going to an exceptional hamburger design, which earned a special feature on Jameson’s menu for local food lovers to enjoy.
The bond between Sun City and the local school district promises to grow even stronger, proving that a community is at its best when its youngest and oldest citizens learn from one another. Each one represents an essential opportunity for meaningful interaction. As HHS students and Sun City residents continue to share their time and wisdom, they pave the way toward a more connected and helpful community for all generations. Through common experiences, mentorship, and service, students and residents are building relationships that link generations and create a more connected, caring community for everyone.
Apart from academics, residents continue to volunteer at school events, mentor young readers, and support activities that bring families and students together. Whether helping in classrooms, judging competitions, or simply giving encouragement, these volunteers are helping students gain confidence and discover new opportunities.
Residents interested in becoming involved with programs in the Huntley schools are invited to contact Eileen Delahanty for more information and volunteer opportunities at edelahanty@district158.org.
