Across Maine, adults 55 and older are becoming steady mentors and friends for children who need extra support.
BANGOR, Maine — For many children, some of the most powerful things they receive at school don’t come in a backpack. They come in the form of a patient listener, an encouraging word and a steady presence who keeps showing up.
That’s at the heart of Penquis’ Foster Grandparent Program, part of AmeriCorps Seniors. The program connects adults 55 and older with children and young people who have special, exceptional or at-risk needs.
In classrooms and children’s programs across much of Maine, Foster Grandparents serve as tutors, mentors, role models and trusted friends. They help children with reading and schoolwork while also supporting social skills, confidence and connection.
During the past year, Penquis Foster Grandparents were assigned to mentor or tutor 156 children. Site supervisors reported that another 737 students benefited from having the volunteers in their classrooms or programs.
Penquis CEO Kara Hay told WABI that what the volunteers provide extends far beyond academic help. Their presence offers children stability, kindness and mentorship while giving them another caring adult in their corner.
For the older adults, those relationships can be meaningful, too. Volunteering offers opportunities to remain active in their communities, build relationships and find a renewed sense of purpose through service.
The Heartitude Lens
Heartitude often looks like showing up — consistently, patiently and without expecting anything in return.
These volunteers may not be able to solve every challenge a child faces, but their presence can communicate something powerful: You matter enough for me to be here.
That’s what leading, living and loving from the heart can look like in everyday life. It doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes the Go Give It mindset means giving someone your time, your attention, your encouragement and your belief in who they can become.
The intergenerational nature of the program makes that generosity travel in both directions. Children receive individualized attention and encouragement. Older adults remain engaged, connected and reminded that their experience, compassion and presence can still make a meaningful difference.
Penquis is seeking additional volunteers and donations to continue expanding that circle of support.
Sometimes changing someone’s day — or perhaps something much bigger — begins simply by showing up.
Live with Heartitude. Lead, live and love from the heart. See the need, give what you can and Go Give It.
Source Story: WABI, “Foster program at Penquis builds connections between older adults and children,” Aug. 17, 2026.