Fort Hays State University sponsors two AmeriCorps Seniors programs. The Programs 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 at the Great Bend Senior Center for an in-service meeting on May 17. Volunteers were provided program information, training materials, as well as a card and tokens of appreciation for their service and in celebration of Older Americans Month. 

During the event, two Senior Companion volunteers celebrating service anniversaries in April, May and June were also recognized for their years of service. Theresa Hall was recognized for seven years of service and Juanita Lumpkins was honored for 19 years of service. Both are from Great Bend.

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 Fort Hays State University and funded by AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps is 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. Call 785-628-5809 for more information.