More than just 'Grandma'

Who couldn't use an extra grandma?

The Foster Grandparent program was developed in the 1960s by Sargent Shriver and was designed to attract low-income seniors to volunteer work. Qualifying "grandparents" are given a small stipend to offset the cost of volunteering -- transportation, food, perhaps a new outfit -- and in return they give their time to local classrooms and students.

But the program means far more than that.

A quick, happy note about self-esteem

I love it when something like this crosses my desk:

I wanted to send you a huge "THANK YOU" for allowing my son the opportunity to attend the YMCA. Brad can walk to the DeWitt Y and goes to "work out" every single day. He has lost 20 lbs and feels so much better about himself.

You have no idea how grateful we are that Brad has this opportunity. His attitude has changed drastically.

Brad was able to take advantate of a 3 mo. membership thanks to you. We appreciate this so much.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Brad was one of the many kids who benefitted from the Capital Region Community Foundation's "Invest in Youth" grant to the local YMCA. I love that Brad is having great success and I love that his mom took the time to thank us for it and share a little of her son's story. Makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside on a bright, sunny day.

Go Brad!