Older Americans Month

May 17, 2023

Each year since 1963, the month of May has been set aside for the purpose of honoring our country's oldest Americans. This year's Older Americans Month theme is, "Aging Unbound", which offers an opportunity to explore diverse aging experiences. The goal is to promote flexible thinking about our aging – and how we all benefit from staying engaged and independent throughout our growth.

 

Volunteerism is a great way for us to stay engaged in our communities as we age. It’s a great way to meet other like-minded individuals, and to give back and make our communities a better place to live.

 

Here at the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program, our volunteers are giving back to their community and are remaining engaged by volunteering regularly at local schools and community-based non-profit programs as mentors and tutors to students. In 2022, 168 Foster Grandparent Volunteers served 78,370 hours, serving 7,557 students. 1,176 of those students were identified as having special or exceptional needs.

 

We often hear from our volunteers that being a part of the program gives them a great sense of purpose and how they look forward to their time in the classroom. Some of our volunteers have even stated, “I’m not sure who’s benefiting more, them or me”.

 

There are many opportunities in your community to stay involved. If working with and mentoring children is something that you think would help you give back and stay engaged, contact the Central MN Foster Grandparent Program today!

(320) 229-4589 or https://www.ccstcloud.org/services/community/foster-grandparents.

 


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.