I have volunteered at Pittman Elementary as a Reading Buddy for three years. During this time of helping young children with their reading skills, I discovered many of them lack direction from an adult, specifically grandparents. One child in particular has had a big influence on me. She helped me look outside the box regarding kids in need of friendship with a grandparent-type adult–someone to depend on to consistently be there for them.
As a Reading Buddy, I’m supposed to help children read better. However, some days, the children just want to talk to me and they want me to listen. So that’s what I do. I now know that my experience as a Reading Buddy was a primer for what God has in store.
One morning during my devotional time, God spoke to me. I know it was Him because this thought came out of the blue. I was prompted to start a ministry that would connect senior adults with children. It would be simple, with adults needing only to play, read, talk, and especially listen to the kids. It has taken me over a year to get this ministry in place, and I am so excited to be leading it. We are officially launching this fall. This ministry will work alongside Schweitzer Kids as an outreach to students who attend Pittman. We will host a monthly “Parents Night Out” that includes dinner and time to hang out. On Schweitzer’s side, were calling this ministry GPS: Grandparents Planting Seeds.
I believe grandparent-type adults (of all ages) have much wisdom to share with young people. That’s what this ministry is all about, sharing wisdom with children and playing with them. Volunteers will have uninterrupted time to sit and play as well as listen and talk with children.
You might wonder, “Do I have to have grandkids to volunteer?” The answer is, “No!” Your wisdom as an older adult is welcome even if you don’t have grandkids of your own. There are a few easy steps to get you connected as a “grandparent.” Reach out to me or any of the Schweitzer Kids staff to get started.
I am so excited to get started! I believe it will be a win for the volunteers and a win for the children. Let’s do this! Learn more about GPS at schweitzer.church/kids