Pepperdine University’s Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) marked a momentous occasion on Jan. 8, as it hosted Michael D. Smith, CEO of AmeriCorps, at the Girls Club of Los Angeles (GCLA). This event celebrated the program’s nearly 50-year partnership with GCLA and highlighted the invaluable contributions of senior volunteers to the community.
During his visit, Michael D. Smith engaged with 10 dedicated Foster Grandparent volunteers, listening to their impactful stories and experiences. These volunteers, part of a team of over 20 active members, provide daily social-emotional and literacy support to children across GCLA’s Head Start, afterschool, youth leadership, and summer day camp programs. Their mentorship fosters intergenerational connections, empowering children and helping them thrive.
“When many people think about AmeriCorps, they think about the young people that are right out of high school or right out of college, that are serving in communities across the country. But our largest volunteer force throughout the country is our AmeriCorps seniors, our foster grandparents, our retired senior volunteers, and our senior companions who are serving, on average, seven years,” Smith remarked.
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“I am here to celebrate the work they do to make a difference in communities, but also to learn about how we can make the program even better here in Los Angeles and across the country.”
Grandma Patricia Ford, a dedicated advocate for the program, recalls her initial moments: “I didn’t think I was going to make it. I had no idea what I was going to do.” Now, eight years later and following a 2019 appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” she describes the journey as one of the greatest joys of her life.
Grandma Joyce Chatmon vividly recalls her early days in the program, when she initially hesitated to join: “I said, ‘No, no. But they kept coming for me.’ Eventually, I decided, ‘Okay, I’ll go.'”
Her initial reluctance soon led to a deep bond with the children she mentored. She watched them grow and move on to the following stages.
One moment stands out with one of the kids: “He told me, ‘Grandma, I’m going to the next class, and you’re coming with me.'” She reassured him that he would move forward but promised he could visit her. True to his word, he sees her every day.
The visit also discussed the program’s history, mission, and current impact. Smith emphasized AmeriCorps’ commitment to enhancing the Foster Grandparent Program, ensuring volunteers have the tools and resources to amplify their efforts. The event concluded with an open dialogue on future collaborations, focusing on volunteer recruitment, community outreach, and program sustainability.
Founded in 1972, Pepperdine’s Foster Grandparent Program has grown into a cornerstone of community service, enriching the lives of both youth and seniors. This year, the program adopts the theme “Helping Hands,” inspired by Nelson Mandela’s call to action: “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.”
For more information about Pepperdine University’s Foster Grandparent Program, visit gsep.pepperdine.edu/foster-grandparent-program.