BOTHELL, WASH. – A Bothell teen chose a retirement home as the venue for her Sweet 16 party.

“Helping people makes me happy,” said 16-year-old Lily Giroux. She visited about 30 people at Riverside East Retirement in Bothell on Friday.

“Young girl, 16 years old who is willing to share birthday cheer,” said 90-year-old Norma Stoutenburg. “A lot of folks, they may not have grand children or they may have grandchildren, but they don’t live nearby.”

Lily said she came here to gain wisdom from those who have lived fuller lives – and to keep the seniors company.

The group played word games and the crowd sang happy birthday to the Woodinville High School student who will be a junior come fall.