A Beacon of Kindness and Learning in Central Minnesota

February 12, 2025

For over five years, Grandma Cory has been a dedicated volunteer with the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program, sharing her love of learning and kindness with classrooms across the community. Driven by a deep passion for children, Cory joined the program to make a meaningful difference and inspire the next generation. 


For the past three years, Cory has had a lasting impact in Suzanne Robben's preschool classroom at Oak Ridge Early Learning Center. On World Kindness Day, Suzanne posted a heartwarming photo of herself with Cory, capturing the spirit of their shared mission to spread kindness and positive energy. 


Devoting two hours a day, four days a week, Cory’s presence is felt throughout the classroom. While she primarily focuses on reading and math stations, her caring and flexible nature often sees her lending a hand with a variety of tasks. Suzanne describes Cory as having a magnetic effect on the students: “They are like magnets to her. She is so kind, caring, and has a special way of engaging their learning.” 


Cory’s approach to teaching is as heartwarming as it is effective. She connects with the children by meeting them at their level—often sitting crisscross-applesauce with them during story time. Her interactions with the children have created lasting bonds, with the kids eagerly asking about her whenever she is absent and excited for her return. They also love it when she participates in special celebration days like Whacky Wednesday, PJ Day, and Hat Day, making those moments even more memorable. 


Beyond her daily presence in the classroom, Cory has committed to using the Foster Grandparent Program’s Assignment Plan, a tool designed to measure student progress. Although she works with all of the children, certain students who need extra one-on-one support with reading and math receive focused attention. At the end of the year, these children will be reassessed to track their progress and celebrate the improvements they’ve made with Cory's guidance. 


Grandma Cory’s dedication and warmth have already made a significant impact on the students and the broader Oak Ridge Early Learning Center community. The lasting relationships she has built, along with the academic progress of the children she mentors, reflect the powerful role that the Foster Grandparent Program plays in enriching young lives. 


The Central MN Foster Grandparent Program continues to provide meaningful intergenerational connections through tutoring, mentorship, and supportive relationships that benefit both volunteers and children alike. In 2023 alone, 195 senior volunteers served over 77,500 hours across 88 stations in Central Minnesota, working with nearly 10,000 children. With a focus on school readiness, literacy, social skills, and more, the program helps children thrive in ways that go beyond the classroom. 


Grandma Cory’s story is a beautiful example of the difference one dedicated volunteer can make. Her love, support, and kindness continue to inspire not just the children she works with, but all of us fortunate enough to be a part of the Foster Grandparent Program. 


Learn more about how the Foster Grandparent Program is making an impact in Central Minnesota. 

Our Recent News

Make God's Love Visible: Raphael's Story

By Jenna Pettit • October 27, 2025
Raphael's Story: Senior Dining

Help Keep Central MN Warm this Winter!

By Jenna Pettit • October 21, 2025
As the crisp autumn air settles in and football season hits its stride, Catholic Charities is proud to partner with the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University for a heartwarming cause: a Winter Wear Drive during the Johnnie Football Game on Saturday, October 25, 2025 , part of the schools’ Family Weekend celebration. While fans gather to cheer on the Johnnies, we’re inviting everyone to bring the warmth—literally. We’re collecting coats, hats, mittens, boots, and other cold-weather gear to support families in need across Central Minnesota. With winter fast approaching, this drive is more than a donation—it’s a lifeline for those facing the season without adequate protection from the cold. Our goal? 250+ coats. Our mission? Ensuring no one faces winter unprepared. Collection boxes will be conveniently placed around campus, near the field, and in the tailgate area , making it easy for attendees to drop off their donations while enjoying the game-day festivities. Can’t make it to the game? No problem! You can still be part of the effort. Donation boxes will be available at BOTH Blueline Sports locations , so you can contribute at your convenience. This collaboration between Catholic Charities and CSB/SJU is a powerful example of community coming together—not just to celebrate, but to care. Let’s rally for warmth, compassion, and generosity. Together, we can make a real difference. Let’s make this Family Weekend one to remember—for all the right reasons.

A New Opportunity for Tyrone

By Brittany Hoversten • October 15, 2025
Homelessness can be an isolating and heartbreaking experience. For many individuals, it can feel like an endless cycle of setbacks, leaving them uncertain of where to turn for help. This is the story of Tyrone, a 37-year-old man who, after spending an extended period on the streets, found his way to Catholic Charities Emergency Services—and with it, a renewed sense of hope and a path forward. Tyrone's journey began when he was introduced to Catholic Charities by the staff at Place of Hope in St. Cloud, a shelter that provides support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Tyrone was eager to make a change, but he knew he faced some significant challenges: securing stable housing and finding a job. To do this, he needed identification and other key documents, which would be vital for his employment and housing applications. When Tyrone came to Catholic Charities, he was not just seeking food assistance—he needed tangible support to help him rebuild his life. We were able to offer exactly what he needed, starting with a free bus pass to help him get around. This small but crucial gift allowed him to travel to job interviews and important appointments without the burden of transportation costs. In his appointment with our Financial Assistance program, Tyrone was relieved to learn that Catholic Charities could offer additional support. First, we helped him obtain his state identification card, followed by his birth certificate. These documents were essential for Tyrone to move forward with securing employment and housing. After some interviews, Tyrone accepted a job at a local restaurant in St. Cloud. We were able to help him purchase two pairs of black pants, a necessary uniform requirement for his new position. With the right clothing and documentation, Tyrone was ready to take on his new job. Looking back on his experience, Tyrone shared how grateful he was for the help he received from Catholic Charities. Our services gave him more than just the physical items he needed—they provided him with the tools and resources to regain his independence and start a new chapter in his life. We are proud to have been a part of Tyrone’s journey, and we are committed to helping others in our community who are facing similar struggles.