(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud.)

January is the 20th anniversary of National Mentor month and it is a good time for individuals to reflect on how they have been mentored. It is a time to reach out to mentors and influencers. It may be surprising that they had no idea they did anything special and made such a difference.

One of the questions asked of potential Foster Grandparents is “who has influenced you in your life?” Most people are surprised at this question, it is not something that they have given much thought. Some people are able to answer quickly and others ponder the question. The answers are varied and interesting. One common theme is they have had an older caring adult, who has been in their life. This could be a parent, grandparent, relative, neighbor, teacher or co-worker. As they reflect on their answers many wish they had told that person how much they have meant to them. 

There are many programs individuals can join as part of the journey, one of which is the Foster Grandparent Program. In Central MN, nearly 200 Foster Grandparent volunteers are a part of this effort, serving in schools, Head Starts and other local non-profits. The volunteers of the Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program provide meaningful, supportive relationships for children with special needs who enrich the lives of all involved. Everyone needs someone who believes in them and to encourage them and to build positive relationships.

About Foster Grandparents

Foster Grandparents spend 8-40 hours per week helping children in schools, early education programs, residential facilities and other nonprofit agencies. Through their service, the Foster Grandparent create relationships and become role models for children who need such constructive relationships the most.

AmeriCorps Seniors, which is under the direction of AmeriCorps, consists of Foster Grandparent Program, the Senior Companion Program and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. The Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program is sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud.

For more information on the Foster Grandparent Program contact Pat Braun at 612-390-0617 or
Pat.Nraun@CCStCloud.org