Foster Grandparent Program Looking for Volunteers

December 22, 2022

The Foster Grandparent Program is looking for more volunteers!

The Senior volunteers of the Catholic Charities Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program provide meaningful, supportive relationships for children with special needs that enrich the lives of all involved.

Catholic Charities Central MN Foster Grandparent Program offers seniors, ages 55 and over, the opportunity to work with students in local schools, or other non-profit agencies with children who need extra assistance. Typically, school “Grandmas” and “Grandpas” work one-on-one with kids who need some extra support and love.

The Foster Grandparent Program is looking for more volunteers age 55+ to make a difference in the lives of children. We invite you to participate in this life changing program. Your involvement will positively benefit the lives of countless children and will undoubtedly improve the quality of your life as well, through the documented health benefits and assurance that your contributions to the community are immense. To learn more, please contact Sue Feliciano, Area Supervisor, at (320) 229-4589 or sue.feliciano@ccstcloud.org.

For Grandma Judy, getting involved in the Foster Grandparent Program was an easy decision. She believes, “Children are our future; we need to support them and their education.” Judy serves at Kimball Elementary and is simply awed by how the students’ faces light up when she comes into the classroom. She hopes others join the program to experience the joy of these smiling faces; “You will get back as much as you give.” 

“Grandma, you should quit your job and read to children!” This is what Grandma Luan heard from her granddaughter as she was getting ready to retire. So, when she saw an ad in the local paper about the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, she felt she had to learn more. “I love working with children and wanted to dedicate my time to making a difference in their lives.” Grandma Luan volunteers at Paynesville Elementary and is making a huge difference by helping students follow directions, learn to count, and of course, read!


Consider joining the Foster Grandparents Program today and visit ccstcloud.org to learn more!

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On Tuesday, January 28th, a group of students from Trex North School visited Pond View Estates in Albany, organized by Sandy Baldwin, group leader, and in collaboration with Catholic Charities in St. Cloud. Julie Ueland, the student advisor, helped oversee the project to ensure everything went smoothly. Pond View Estates is a Senior Dining Congregate Kitchen, where seniors gather to enjoy meals and socialize, making it a perfect environment for these students to connect with the residents. When the students arrived, the residents were delighted by the youthful energy and enthusiasm they brought. The students quickly got to work helping the seniors create Valentine’s cards before lunch. The atmosphere was filled with creativity and laughter as everyone worked together to make colorful and thoughtful cards. Afterward, the group enjoyed lunch together, where the dining hall was full of lively conversation. The students interacted with the seniors, hearing their stories and building new connections. The visit bridged generations, fostering meaningful and joyful interactions. The highlight of the day was the bingo game that followed lunch, where excitement filled the room as the numbers were called. Friendly competition brought plenty of laughs, especially when someone was just one number away from winning, only for another participant to grab the prize first. The fun, camaraderie, and shared moments left everyone smiling. A few standout interactions included Joseph and Riley spending time with resident Victor Tschida, and Tianna sharing a special moment with resident Ken Bunger. These connections highlighted the deep impact of intergenerational friendships. For many of the residents, the visit from the students was an unexpected but cherished experience, reminding everyone of the importance of making time for one another. It was a beautiful day of fostering community, connection, and kindness. As the students prepared to leave, there was a sense of fulfillment in the air. Not only had the day brightened the seniors' lives, but it also left a lasting impression on the students, who gained a deeper understanding of the joy and fulfillment that comes from spending quality time with others. The day ended with smiles, hugs, and promises to return, a reminder of how powerful and meaningful human connection can be.

Volunteering at Lincoln Elementary

By Brittany Hoversten • March 5, 2025
At Lincoln Elementary in Little Falls, the pre-K classroom thrives thanks to Miss Maranda and Dorothy, a Foster Grandparent volunteer. Ms. Maranda values having Grandma Dorothy in the room. "It's great to have someone with a fresh perspective who connects with students," she says. Dorothy helps students with academics and brings a caring approach to the youngest learners. Dorothy enjoys her role, finding it both fun and meaningful. "The kids are so much fun, and I'm happy to help with lessons that impact their learning for years," she says. The appreciation between Miss Maranda and Dorothy is mutual. "Dorothy brings positivity, is helpful and kind, and has become an integral part of our classroom team," Miss Maranda shares. Dorothy feels valued, especially when teachers note her impact on students. "When my teacher tells me, 'I can tell which students you've worked with,' it lets me know I’m making a difference," Dorothy says. Their collaboration has led to touching moments, such as a student hugging Dorothy at Walmart. "It shows the lasting connection we’ve made," Dorothy recalls. Miss Maranda echoes this, saying, "We’d gladly welcome another foster grandparent into our program. It’s refreshing to have a grandparent figure who makes a lasting impact on both learning and relationships." Dorothy’s support is important for struggling students. "I love encouraging them to do their best," she says, finding joy in seeing their proud faces when they grasp a concept or complete a project. The partnership between Miss Maranda and Dorothy highlights the impact of volunteers. Dorothy’s positivity, support, and perspective enhance the learning experience and provide invaluable help to teachers, showcasing the mutual benefits of the Foster Grandparent Program.
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