Catholic Charities Foster Grandparent Program Celebrates Annual Holiday Recognition

Volunteers from Catholic Charities Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program gathered at Jack and Jim’s Event Center in Duelm recently, to recognize volunteers’ efforts and to honor their dedication to the children in the communities they serve.  

One of the honorees was Nancy Heisick, who was recognized for five years of service at Becker Intermediate School.  Her enthusiasm and upbeat nature has a very positive impact on the students and the school.  You will often find her in the classroom helping students in groups but most often one-on-one helping students discover the joy of reading.

A note from Julie Knutson, one of her teachers: “I have had the wonderful pleasure of working with Grandma Nancy.  Nancy is such a kind and caring person. She always takes time out of her day to find out how a person is doing, student or adult.   Nancy lights up the room whenever she comes in.  She has such a wonderful personality!  The students’ faces light up when they see Nancy. They truly enjoy working with her.  There isn’t a single student that doesn’t want to work with her. Nancy gives 100% to each student she is helping. She wants all the kiddos to succeed! I consider it a true blessing as well as a terrific pleasure to have her spend part of her day with our class. Congratulations Nancy - we think you’re awesome!”

There is a special connection between grandparents and children and this is seen every day. The Foster Grandparent Program matches adults (55+) with kids who are in need.  The needs range from those who are struggling in school with their academics, those who need a positive role model, to those who need a friendly face and a smile.  

The students and the Foster Grandparents bring out the best in each other.  Not every grandparent can say they have hundreds of grandchildren, but that is what happens in schools and other sites where Foster Grandparents serve.  The Foster Grandparent may not know all of the names of the students, but the students know them as Grandma or Grandpa.  During this holiday season and all the year through, the gift they give is their presence!

This year marks the 54th Anniversary of the Foster Grandparent Program and the belief that inspired its start in 1965 could not be truer today. Namely, that seniors have extraordinary gifts and talents to share with children who need extra support. 

For information on the Foster Grandparent Program, or being a Foster Grandparent, please contact Pat Braun at 612-390-0617 or pbraun@ccstcloud.org