Assist in the community / Aider la communauté

Building meaningful connections across generations

Grandpals is a pilot project that connects older adults with young families to foster supportive, intergenerational relationships inspired by the warmth and care often associated with a grandparent bond.

Many families are raising children far from relatives or without the support network they envisioned. At the same time, many older adults are looking for meaningful ways to stay connected, share their experiences, and contribute to their community. Grandpals brings these generations together through mutually enriching relationships built on trust, respect, and companionship.

For families, a Grandpal can offer a caring presence, encouragement, and an additional source of support during the parenting journey. For older adults, connecting with a young family can provide a renewed sense of purpose, belonging, and joy—particularly during life transitions such as retirement, relocation, or becoming an empty nester.

What does a Grandpal do?

Each relationship is unique and develops naturally based on the interests and comfort levels of both the family and the volunteer. A Grandpal may:

• Offer companionship, encouragement, and a caring presence to parents and children.
• Share stories, hobbies, skills, and life experiences.
• Participate in family-friendly activities such as reading, crafting, playing games, or going for walks.
• Celebrate milestones and create meaningful memories together.
• Help strengthen the sense of community and connection that supports healthy family life.
• Grandpals are not babysitters – they don’t replace a responsible adult’s presence

How does the program work?

• Grandpals are registered volunteers who complete an application process, sign a confidentiality agreement, and undergo a police background check (volunteers fill in a form, and the verification will be done at no cost).
• Volunteers are matched with one family based on factors such as location, availability, interests, and preferences.
• Both Grandpals and families agree to program guidelines designed to foster positive, respectful, and safe relationships.
• Ongoing support is provided throughout the match, including regular check-ins with both volunteers and families to ensure everyone feels comfortable and supported in their role.

Interested in becoming a Grandpal? Fill in an application, or contact Elise Holloway, Volunteer Coordinator, at 581-333-1003 or eholloway@jhpartners.net for more information.