In November 2017, Kym headed to sunny North Carolina to her mom’s senior living commmunity to do a test run. Twenty-four seniors gathered in the dining hall and shared their favorite color, favorite food, favorite past time, and advice they would give to the younger generation.

At the end of the activity, each senior and staff member chose a necklace or bracelet of their choice as a memento. During later visits to see her mom, Kym saw seniors still wearing their jewelry. Because of the activity, she learned the names of her mother’s neighbors and formed a deeper connection with her community.
Mission accomplished!

After seeing the positive impact of the pilot, Kym decided to turn the Gladys Love Project from an independent art project into a non profit organization. In partnership with Melissa O’Connell, Anna Bella, and Gloria Singleton, the nonprofit was founded in January 2020.