Community Foundation grant supports proven intergenerational mentoring program

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation Board of Trustees has awarded a $195,000 grant to Gerontology Network. The grant will support an intergenerational mentoring program at Harrison Park School called 'Traveling Grannies and Grandpas.'

Gerontology Network's previous mentoring programs have been very successful. Based on past results, at least 85 percent of participants are expected to show improvement in MEAP scores. Improvements in behavior are also anticipated.

"Gerontology Network has an extensive track record operating these programs and demonstrating significant academic achievement," says Community Foundation program director, Kate Schmid.

The educational and personal support students receive from their mentors complements the Challenge Scholars program also underway at Harrison Park. Challenge Scholars is a Community Foundation initiative that gives educational support and college scholarships to students from the school. Both the mentoring and Challenge Scholars programs focus on creating a college-going culture within Harrison Park.

"The intergenerational programs are so vital because they allow students to be mentored by older adults and to be influenced positively," says Jennifer Feuerstein, director of marketing, communications, and development at Gerontology Network.

Approximately 170 students of all grade levels are expected to be enrolled in the three-year mentoring program. Students will be selected for mentoring based on teacher recommendations and academic needs.

The program will also benefit the physical and mental health of mentors, all of whom are adults over 50 years of age. A stipend will supplement their incomes.

"When older adults volunteer with students, they live longer, healthier lives, have a more positive outlook on life, and are less isolated and lonely," says Feuerstein. "These opportunities are a win-win."

Financial support for the grant to Gerontology Network will come from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Lucy Barnett Fund for the Elderly.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation leads Kent County in making positive, sustainable change. With its endowment, the Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports local nonprofits, leads significant social change, and helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals.


Get involved:

- Volunteer at Gerontology Network.
- Donate to Gerontology Network.
- Give to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation.

Sources: Jennifer Feuerstein, Gerontology Network; Kate Schmid, Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Writer: Victoria Mullen, Do Good Editor

Images courtesy of Gerontology Network