Foster Grandparent Helen Served Staples-Motley Students for 25 Years

The senior volunteers of the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program, sponsored by Catholic Charities, provide meaningful, supportive relationships for children with special needs that enrich the lives of all involved.

Pat Scherf, Foster Grandparent Program Area Supervisor, cares for her mother and recently had a conversation with her nurse, Azalea, and learned she was from the Brainerd lakes area; specifically, Staples-Motley.

Pat told Azalea she works for the Foster Grandparent Program and is often in that area, and asked if she's ever had a grandma in her classroom. With a big smile, Azalea said, "Yes! Grandma Helen! We loved her!

Azalea added, "I don't remember everything she did for us, but we were always so excited to see her. She helped us with our crafts, and I think she gave us treats! We read together all the time…"

Grandma Helen from Staples-Motley Elementary School is remembered more than two decades later, and Pat shared with Azalea that Grandma Helen was still volunteering. Azalea responded with a huge smile and expressed how happy she was that Grandma Helen had been volunteering in her school all these years, and the amount of children’s lives she’s been able to positively impact.

Grandma Helen recently retired. She served students for 25 years! Thank you, Helen!

The Foster Grandparent Program is always seeking volunteers 55+. If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the lives of children, please contact Pat Scherf, Area Supervisor, at 320-293-0682 or pat.scherf@ccstcloud.org.