Goodwin Living™ Invests in Herralink, an Innovative Volunteer Organization

Two Organizations Join Forces to Build Intergenerational Connections

Goodwin Living™, a faith-based, not-for-profit, senior living and health care services organization in the National Capital Region, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Herralink, a growing volunteer organization that builds intergenerational bridges by connecting high school students with residents in senior living communities. In addition, Herralink founder Isabella Solano has joined Goodwin Living as Program Manager.

Solano launched Herralink in October 2023 to address loneliness and create meaningful relationships across generations. The program brings high school students into senior living communities, where they volunteer by playing board games, bingo, and making art with residents. Students are also paired with residents for weekly visits.  Students earn credit for community service requirements at their schools, while older adults enjoy companionship and engagement.

“In just a short time, Herralink has shown how powerful intergenerational connection can be,” said Solano. “I’m honored to continue this mission with Goodwin Living and help grow a community rooted in purpose and relationships.”

Since its launch, Herralink has connected more than 700 student volunteers with older adults across 12 locations in Northern Virginia, including Health & Rehab Centers in Dulles, Gainesville and Sterling. Goodwin Living and Herralink share a strong commitment to volunteerism and a shared vision for deeper community connection.

Herralink will now help expand volunteer engagement across all Goodwin Living senior living campuses, including Goodwin House Alexandria, Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads, The View Alexandria, and Forest Hills of DC. The program will support an already active volunteer community at Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads.

“We’re excited to welcome Isabella and Herralink to Goodwin Living,” said Rob Liebreich, President and CEO. “This collaboration will strengthen our ability to bring generations together through shared time, stories and experiences. There is so much good which comes from taking time to be present with one another, and Isabella has created an awesome platform to facilitate this among young and old alike which we are excited to widely share.”

For more information on Goodwin Living, please visit GoodwinLiving.org and Herralink.com.