Community Action Partnership
Foster Grandparent Program Improves Lives
Grandma Pat has been volunteering as a Community Action Foster Grandparent since 2019. She has worked mostly with toddlers and says she got involved because she enjoys being around children. She says one of the best parts is getting to start her day with lots of hugs.
“When they say ‘hi’ and they are happy to see you, it makes me feel so good.”
The Foster Grandparent Program at Community Action Partnership of Lancaster and Saunders Counties places senior adults (55 years or older) in Head Start classrooms to provide mentorship and support for children age 0-5. Volunteers serve between 15 and 35 hours per week and receive a stipend for their time, as well as other benefits such as mileage reimbursements, bus passes, and balanced meals while serving. Volunteers must qualify by income and background checks are required.
In partnership with AmeriCorps Seniors, the Foster Grandparent Program uses a dual approach to benefit the life of the senior volunteer and the child. Not only do volunteers often experience higher life satisfaction, but the children are being prepared for kindergarten with school readiness skills.
Grandma Pat has stayed with the program for nearly six years because it gives her something to do for a few hours every day, while forming special bonds with children in her class.
“One little girl became attached right away and she’s still attached. If she gets in trouble, she starts yelling, ‘Grandma! Grandma!’”
Another core benefit of the program is enhanced physical capacity. Being a Foster Grandparent gets the volunteer moving, while also accommodating physical limitations. Volunteers stay active not only in the classroom but through trainings throughout the year. These trainings often include tips for physical health like chair yoga, or mental wellness tips such as meditation or self-care strategies.
Every year, Foster Grandparents are recognized with awards by their teachers. At this year’s ceremony, Pat’s classroom teacher presented her with the Sunshine Award because “She is a ray of sunshine! Even on dark and dreary days, she is so happy and cheerful. The kids see her in the hallway, and they start running to the door when she walks in. They don't even allow her the chance to put her stuff away before they mob her with hugs.”
Learn more about becoming a Foster Grandparent by calling Sam Bates at 402-875-9320 or visiting their website.
