The journeys of two traveling grannies brought them to the Steepletown Preschool to volunteer this school year. Charlotte is a retired kindergarten teacher, having taught at Ken-O-Sha Elementary School for 25 years. When asked why she is a traveling grannie, Charlotte commented “I am an active person and I like to keep busy, and this is something that I really enjoy.” Her mother was also a school teacher who instilled in her a love for children. In reflecting on her experience at the Steepletown Preschool, Charlotte shares how she enjoys helping out with the teachers in the classroom. “We get along really well and complement each other’s work styles. At the end of the day its about respecting each other.”
Christine’s story is a bit different. One of her first jobs was as a multi-skilled heavy equipment operator and then she worked in pest control for nearly 30 years, having graduated from Purdue University with a degree in this field. As she shared, “I’m one of those who want to get out and enjoy life! Those that do usually live longer and are happier.” In reflecting on the first three weeks of volunteering at the Steepletown Preschool, she referred to patience many times. “Patience and a love for children is all you need. Although on the second day I had to take out my hearing aids because the children can get loud.” Christine also shared that her own grandkids are grown “and not much fun anymore,” so she decided to volunteer where she could interact with and help teach children.
Steepletown is grateful to the Foster Grandparents Program which oversees the Traveling Grannies and Grandpas, which is all part of Senior Neighbors. There are many benefits to volunteering with Senior Neighbors, probably the most beneficial is the feeling of living life to its fullest. Information on volunteering with Senior Neighbors can be found at seniorneighbors.org. And if you are at least 55 years old and are willing to volunteer a minimum of 20 hours/week (during the school year), please consider becoming a traveling grannie or grandpa here at the Steepletown Preschool.