Jiya Joshi, 14, was barred from Houston's Landon Ridge Assisted Living for being underage in May 2024. Undeterred, she launched Young and Old United, a youth‑volunteer network that has already added 70 teen members to visit 4,000 seniors across the city.
Joshi’s motivation traces back to her grandmother Saroj, who immigrated from India to Texas with the family in 2010. After Saroj’s death the following year, the 14‑year‑old felt a void that inspired her to seek companionship for the elderly.
When she first tried to volunteer, the facility’s administrator said, 'We don’t allow volunteers under 18.' The administrator’s deflection prompted Joshi to ask for a single visit, which Sharon Williams, activities director, granted.
The visit, which took place on a sunny Saturday, saw Jiya paint with residents like Betty and listen to wartime stories, turning a routine day into a lively gathering that drew a dozen new friends.
Since then, the network has organized weekly visits, distributed hygiene kits in partnership with local dentists, and raised $9,000 through fundraisers. The program now operates in 11 countries through an ambassador network.
A 78‑year‑old resident, Betty, shared that the July 4th event was her first family dinner in months, highlighting the emotional impact of the program. Joshi says the movement’s next milestone is a national pilot slated for September 2026.