Grandma “Lilly” has been in the Foster Grandparent Program for several years. She is always smiling, energetic, and will dive in to help wherever she sees a need.
For seven hours a day, every school day of the week, Lilly goes to a kindergarten classroom to mentor students who are struggling to improve their skills. She mentors students one-on-one, in reading and math, as well as helping them manage their emotions. Lilly also helps the kids with social skills, problem solving and learning to stay on task.
Lilly has been with the same teacher since she started with the Foster Grandparent Program. They are a great team. The teacher says they read each other’s minds – very helpful in a room full of active five-year-old kids! Her teacher told us recently, “My Grandma L is irreplaceable. She has become my best friend, and I’m deeply appreciative for the program.”
Before Lilly started volunteering as a Grandma at schools, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She took it in stride and beat it. Her diagnosis of chronic migraines along her journey didn’t seem to faze her a bit. About a year ago, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She gave us that news the same way someone might tell you they had a dentist appointment. Lilly underwent surgery, and returned to her classroom less than two months later.
At school, Lilly keeps a drawer full of children’s clothing in case a child has an ‘accident’. All the teachers in the school are aware of this, and are free to take what they need. A child gets taken care of without shame, and without discomfort for the rest of the day.
Lilly’s quiet presence and support tend to be a role model for staff and parents alike. You can’t help but smile when you’re around her, and that attitude permeates the area around her.
It is probably obvious by now that the children would adore Grandma Lilly. For some students, she is the most consistent positive adult presence in their lives. She is the trusted soft place to land. They want her to be proud of them. She is often surrounded by little ones who want to show Grandma their homework or latest artwork.
Lilly will tell us she gets more than she gives by volunteering. She has a reason to get up in the morning – someone needs her. She says it keeps her active, healthy, and she gets lots of hugs every day. I think the recipients of her love and nurture might argue who gets the better end of this deal.
I had a couple of bad days last week (who hasn’t?). Then I spent a little time with Lilly. I was a little embarrassed about what I considered bad days. Thank you, Lilly, for your service, your generous spirit, and sharing your sweet joy.
Just one person. She happens to be a senior who is on a very limited income, and she never stops giving to others.