Caption: Left to right are Sue Boettcher, kindergarten teacher at Brocton Elementary School; Brenda Weiler, project coordinator, Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program; Phyllis Sprague, Foster Grandma; Debbie Basile, project director, Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program; and Henrietta Graziano, a Foster Grandma serving Dawn Bates’ kindergarten classroom.

Foster Grandparents are a wonderful addition to school classrooms, Head Start programs and pre-elementary settings across the tri-county region of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties. In an effort to honor these fine folks, Lutheran Foster Grandparent Program hosted a dinner at Manning’s Fireside Manor in Dunkirk. A choice of entrees and one of the selection of Fireside Manor’s specialty desserts was enjoyed by the guests. Gathering at this “out of the workplace” location, the Foster Grandparents shared a meal, conversation and fellowship as they mingled with their teachers and coordinating staff. The staff of FGP organized this event to honor and celebrate together.

Featured above is Grandma Phyllis who serves in Susan Boettcher classroom and has competed nine years of service. Grandma Henrietta has served in Dawn Bates classroom for seven years.

Foster Grandparents are placed under the direction and supervision of an assigned teacher or site supervisor to establish a one-on-one relationship with a child in need of assistance to guide them to be successful in their academic journey. Lutheran Foster Grandparent project focuses on children from birth to fourth grade. Our project endeavors to support these children in educational years to prepare them to be better citizens.

Honorees Include:

9 Years of Service

John Blackman

8 Years of Service

Betty Waller

7 Years of Service

Henrietta Graziano

5 Years of Service

Donna Ulrich

3 Years of Service

Valerie Aviles

Lutheran Foster Grandparents is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, the federal agency for volunteering, service and civic engagement. The agency engages millions of Americans in citizen service through Senior Corps programs and leads the nation’s volunteering and service efforts.

Within the tri-county area Lutheran FGP is actively searching for new recruits to serve in local schools and agencies. If you or someone you know is aged 55 or older and possess an interest in serving and guiding the next generation, call our office at 665-5354.