Tri-Valley Senior Programs is excited to announce the hiring of Penny Millspaugh, a Grand Forks resident, as program manager for the Foster Grandparent Program in Eastern North Dakota. “Re-launching this vital program while we are still in the midst of a pandemic may not be easy, but it is important for both our seniors and our young people,” stated Millspaugh. The Foster Grandparent Program in Eastern North Dakota will be serving the counties of Barnes, Benson, Cass, Cavalier, Grand Forks, Griggs, Pierce, Ramsey, Richland, Sargent, Stutsman, Traill, and Walsh Counties.
The Foster Grandparent Program engages adults age 55 and over to help children in their communities develop academic and life skills critical to their development and future success. The AmeriCorps Senior volunteers serve as tutors, mentors, and role models to children at risk of falling behind in school and to those with physical disabilities and/or other special needs. The intergenerational exchanges that occur build lasting bonds that benefit those who perform the service and those being served.
“The Tri-Valley Senior Programs department is excited to expand its current Foster Grandparent Program into Eastern North Dakota,” says Marley Melbye (Tri-Valley Senior Programs Director). “We will be able to play a part in improving the quality of life for our senior volunteers in North Dakota who have a passion for today’s youth. In addition, we are excited about the development and cultivation of new partnerships and collaborations with various school districts throughout the service area,” Melbye adds.
AmeriCorps is the federal agency for volunteering, service, and civic engagement. The agency engages millions of Americans in citizen service through its AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs and leads the nation’s volunteering and service efforts.
For questions on Tri-Valley’s Foster Grandparent Program or other Senior Programs opportunities, please call 800-584-7020 or visit www.tvoc.org.