A Program That Connects Generations and Strengthens Classrooms Across Appalachian Ohio

For more than five decades, the Foster Grandparent Program has quietly shaped classrooms and lives across Appalachian Ohio. Operated by Corporation of Ohio Appalachian Development, the program connects older adults with local schools to support children who need extra educational help during the school day. The program is open to adults aged 55 and older who meet income eligibility requirements.

Volunteers are placed directly in classrooms where they assist students with reading, writing, focus, and confidence.

No teaching background is required. What matters most is patience, consistency, and a genuine desire to help children succeed. Participants receive a tax free stipend for their service, offering a meaningful way for low income seniors to supplement their income. But for many volunteers, the value of the program goes far beyond financial support.

Retirement can be isolating, and the Foster Grandparent Program offers a renewed sense of routine, connection, and purpose. Volunteers often describe feeling needed again, building relationships with students and educators, and becoming part of a school community. The impact on children is just as significant. Having a trusted adult in the classroom can improve academic engagement, emotional regulation, and overall confidence.

For students who may be struggling, the presence of a Foster Grandparent can make school feel more supportive and less overwhelming. The program has been active in COAD’s 30 county region since 1972, but today many school sites are facing a shortage of volunteers. Program leaders hope that increased awareness will encourage more eligible seniors to consider participating and help schools meet growing needs. COAD is currently seeking opportunities to share the story of the Foster Grandparent Program through local media.

The organization can provide interviews, photos, and connections to volunteers who are willing to speak about their experiences and the difference the program has made in their lives. As communities look for ways to support both students and seniors, the Foster Grandparent Program offers a simple and proven model.

It brings generations together, strengthens classrooms, and reminds everyone involved that small acts of time and care can change lives.