The Wyoming Foster Grandparent Program, established in the fall of 1980, provides opportunities for senior service to meet unmet needs, to empower people 55 years and older to contribute to their communities through service, enhancing the lives of those who serve and those whom they serve, and provide communities with valuable services.
Vernita Lackey, Natrona County Foster Grandparent Coordinator, assists agencies throughout the community to see the program a continued and thriving success, “When I first started as the Foster Grandparent Coordinator in Natrona County four years ago, we had eight Foster Grandparents serving in our schools. There are now twenty-one serving throughout our community.”
This sentiment is shared by many of the Foster Grandparents who value the opportunity to learn from the students while leaving a lasting positive impact on their educational journey.
“I always look forward to coming. It gets me to do something positive and meaningful,” said Grandma Mary at Bar Nunn Elementary.
Grandma Connie at Park Elementary loves what being a foster grandparent brings to her life, “I love the challenge. It helps me learn and gives me patience. Things are so much different now than when I was a kid, and I am just amazed by how they learn these days.”
Evansville Elementary’s Grandpa Eugene shares his joy and love for reading with students, “As a Foster Grandparent, I do everything I can to help the teacher with the kids. I help with their reading, writing, and math. But, I like to help them with reading most of all because I like to read.”
Grandma Laurie at Lincoln Elementary finds joy in the program opportunity, “As a part of the program, we work with the kids who may need a little extra support with math or reading or writing. What’s not to love? You get to hang out with kids, and it’s education-focused!”
Grandma Phyllis at Centennial Middle School appreciates the ability to continue her dedication to supporting the education of students, “I just like working with the kids. I work in P.E., Foods, and Art with FLS students. I worked with FLS kids for years at Kelly Walsh.”
Grandma Sandy, who volunteers at Cottonwood and Oregon Trail, appreciates the program's positive collaborative connection, “I love that even if I just help one child write a letter correctly, I go home feeling like I did something great today.”
Bar Nunn’s Grandpa Larry also finds joy in seeing moments of student success, “I love the interaction with the kids. It is just great work, and it is so nice to see them smile.”
The joy in seeing students excel and reach their individual goals is a sentiment valued by many Foster Grandparents. “When you have a student who is having trouble, and you can help them get it right. They are always so happy,” shared Grandma Cathy, who volunteers at Bar Nunn Elementary.
“It is so great to see when the kids have pride in what they can do and what they accomplish. It’s so much better than saying, ‘You make me proud.’ They need to be proud of themselves,” shared Grandma Donnie from Cottonwood.
“One of the most important things about being part of this amazing program is the lifelong connections that our Foster Grandparents make with the children and the teachers,” said Vernita. This connection is apparent when you walk into a classroom with one of these incredible volunteers.
“I just love seeing how the kids react to us. You never know how many positive interactions a child gets, so I am glad I can be a positive interaction for them,” shared Lincoln's, Grandma Debbie.
Grandma Scindy at Bar Nunn Elementary couldn't agree more, “This is the greatest job in the world. Sometimes students can be having a bad day and a little bit of grandma time is the boost to get them going.”
Evansville’s Grandma Debra shared, “I love being a foster grandparent because I love kids. I read with the kids; I help them write. If there is a kid who is upset and doesn't want to work, I talk to them and help them work.”
“My favorite part is being with the kids. I think there should be a foster grandparent in every classroom!” said Grandma Pauletta in Cottonwood Elementary.
“It is fun having something to come to do, of course, but I really enjoy being with the kids,” shared Grandma Jen at Park Elementary.
“Being a Foster Grandparent doesn’t just make a difference to the students we assist or schools we serve,” shared Vernita with a genuine appreciation for and pride in the program's positive benefits throughout the community, “It also helps our volunteer’s quality of life.”
NCSD is committed to working together with our community to develop and engage at the school district levels parent and community partnerships that will foster a climate of high expectations for all. We appreciate the dedicated service these outstanding volunteers provide towards enriching the lives and education of students in our community.