Fort Hays State University sponsors two AmeriCorps Seniors programs that provide opportunities for individuals age 55 and older to give their time and talent to strengthen their communities. AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers serving as Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions from Barton and Pawnee counties gathered in Great Bend for a drive-through in-service event on Feb. 28. Volunteers were provided program information, training materials, as well as a card and an AmeriCorps pin in appreciation for their service and in celebration of AmeriCorps week (March 13-19).  

During the event, volunteers celebrating service anniversaries in January, February and March were recognized for their years of service. Senior Companion Grace Arner from Albert was recognized for her four years of service and Pat Scheuerman of Great Bend was honored for six years of service. There were no area Foster Grandparents celebrating service anniversaries this quarter. 

Foster Grandparents are role models, mentors, and friends to children with exceptional needs. Senior Companions provide daily assistance and friendship to adults needing support to enable them to remain living in their homes as independently as possible. Both provide opportunities for volunteers age 55 and over to stay active by serving in their communities.

The programs are sponsored by FHSU and funded by AmeriCorps, the federal agency connecting individuals and organizations through service and volunteering to tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges. Support for these programs is also provided by many of the counties in which volunteers serve. FHSU Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion volunteers serve in Barton, Ellis, Ford, Gove, Graham, Hodgeman, Ness, Pawnee, Phillips, Rooks, Rush, Russell and Trego counties. 

Both the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion programs are accepting applications. For more information call 785-628-5809.