Dr. Gary Altheim is a New York State licensed Clinical Psychologist who has extensive experience working therapeutically with young adults, seniors, and families; in addition to children who have emotional challenges. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Growth and Development Services (GDS), a nonprofit organization that serves elders and youth. He also has extensive experience working with seniors and elders with dementia. After discovering the healing power of music in caregiving for his mom with Alzheimer’s Disease, he created an intergenerational music program namesake, Youth Engaging Seniors (YES), to bring life and connection to elders living with dementia and caregivers dealing with the pain of caring for a loved one who is often times suffering.

In 2018, Dr. Altheim was a finalist for Child Mind Institute’s Annual Change Maker Awards and was featured in Parents Magazine for his work addressing the burdens of family instability, violence, mental health, and learning disabilities. He has a plethora of experience in conducting workshops, consulting, and training corporations, nonprofits, and assisted living facilities in creating effective environments and tools to work with clients, staff, and caregivers. He developed a leadership development model (The Reach Your Potential Model) to empower individuals and groups to team build, bond, and reach their full potential!

The Youth Engaging Seniors (YES) program harnesses the healing power of music to build meaningful intergenerational relationships between youth and two key groups: older adults in senior centers and nursing homes, and seniors living with dementia.

Through music, art, and wellness activities, YES trains youth, volunteers, and family members to engage with seniors in ways that spark joy, reduce isolation, and develop empathy, communication, and leadership skills.

Our vision is to replicate the YES program across Westchester, New York City, and beyond—sharing its transformative impact with communities nationwide. By bridging generations, YES reduces isolation, fosters empathy and communication, and builds stronger, more compassionate communities where both youth and seniors can reach their fullest potentialr