Movie actress Mae West once said, “You’re never too old to become younger.” Well, what better way to do so than spending some time with a child.

Every day, Foster Grandparents in our area share their love, their time and their years of experience with a boy or girl in need of a little extra attention.

These volunteers are 60 years of age or older and have realized that, despite their retirement status, they have the power to make a difference in their communities by mentoring the young.

They help even the odds for those children who have special needs.

Foster Grandparents are role models and friends. They serve in schools, hospitals, day care centers, Head Start centers, drug treatment centers, as well as correctional institutions and other youth-based facilities. They help children learn to how to read and provide one-on-one tutoring and guidance at a critical time in a boy’s or girl’s life.

They serve an average of 20 hours per week and typically have a low income. Time and time again research has demonstrated that volunteering has a positive impact on older people’s self esteem, health and sense of well-being. Volunteers talk about enjoying themselves and having fun.

Of course, the smiles and hugs from the children they spend time with doesn’t hurt either.

Anyone interested in volunteering their time as a Foster Grandparent is encouraged to call Senior Volunteer Connection of South Georgia at 671-1414. Offices are located at 1302 Lankford Drive.