PEACE, Inc. extends a sincere thank you to the Literacy Coalition of Onondaga County for providing funding to support training for the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program. Their generosity helps ensure that volunteers have the tools and knowledge they need to support young learners across the community.

Earlier this month, Child Care Solutions led a training focused on promoting literacy both inside and outside the classroom. The session explored literacy development from infancy through second grade, highlighting the foundational stages of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Volunteers practiced engaging literacy strategies, explored ways to strengthen early skill development, and received hands-on instructional tools they can use while working with children. Each Foster Grandparent left with a bag of literacy support materials to carry into their volunteer sites.

We also want to thank Congressman John W. Mannion for stopping by to share his classroom experiences and speak to the importance of having a caring, supportive adult in a child’s life. His message reinforced the meaningful impact Foster Grandparents have every day.

Learn more about the AmeriCorps Foster Grandparent Program here:
https://www.peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/

Earlier this month, Executive Director Carolyn Brown attended the in-service training for the Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) to personally thank our AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers for their patience and steadfast dedication during the recent pause in program operations.

We are delighted to announce that our Foster Grandparents are now returning to schools and child-care settings, ready to make a positive impact in the lives of young students across our community. Welcome back, and best wishes for a wonderful and rewarding school year!

The Foster Grandparent Program, part of AmeriCorps Seniors, engages adults age 55 and older in meaningful volunteer service, mentoring and supporting local children who need extra attention and care. Through one-on-one time, encouragement, and friendship, Foster Grandparents help students build confidence, improve academic skills, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Beyond helping children, the program also offers volunteers a strong sense of purpose, community connection, and additional supports — including training, transportation reimbursement, and a modest tax-free stipend for eligible participants.

We’re so grateful to our Foster Grandparents for their compassion and commitment. Their presence continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families throughout Central New York.

For more information about the Foster Grandparent Program, visit www.peace-caa.org/programs/fostergrandparent/