AmeriCorps Seniors celebrates 60 years of Foster Grandparent Program

In 2025, the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, celebrates its 60th anniversary. Since its founding in 1965, the program has empowered adults aged 55 and older to share their time and wisdom with children in need. Funded through an AmeriCorps Seniors grant and support from generous donors, this initiative continues to bridge generations and uplift communities across the nation.

Catholic Charities of Wichita (CCW), a qualified AmeriCorps Seniors agency, joined the movement in 1981. Seeing a unique opportunity to connect low-income seniors with children who have special needs, CCW launched its local Foster Grandparent Program to bring compassionate support into classrooms, early childhood centers and shelters in the local community.

Since the establishment of our CCW Foster Grandparent Program, foster grandparent volunteers have donated thousands of hours to helping children thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Program volunteers offer individualized support by tutoring students one-on-one or in small groups, mentoring, assisting parents who are living in a shelter setting, and providing teachers classroom support.

In addition to the joy of serving, eligible foster grandparents receive a tax-free stipend to help supplement their income.

“For me, this program is the best thing that could have happened,” said long-time volunteer Tywanna Faye Thompson.

“The children come in when they are five, and I get to watch them grow and learn new things. Everyone in the school calls me grandma.”