A foster grandmother is setting records for the time, care, and compassion she gives children in her community.
Phyllis Holmes said volunteering is her way of connecting with her extended family and her community.
“I feel good about what I do. I enjoy the students and they enjoy me,” said Phyllis who started volunteering for the Catholic Charities Foster Grandparent’s program in 2009.
Her students call her “Grandma Phyllis,” and she has been a driving force behind the impactful program.
The program pairs adults aged 55 and older with children who need academic or emotional support. Phyllis has now logged almost 20,000 volunteer hours, never missing a day even though she has COPD, has oxygen to help her breathe and relies on public transportation.
“I am the preschool teacher at Catholic Charities Headstart at the Broadway Center in Joliet, and we absolutely love her,” said Erin Bisbee. “She always comes to work with a smile on her face. Probably half the group speaks Spanish only. But you can tell, they understand each other.”
“She has been a wonderful addition to the program,” added Deb Sirek with Catholic Charities.
Phyllis will turn 80 on June 10th.
“I am so grateful, thankful and blessed to be able to have done this and will continue on – until the Good Lord sits me down,” she said.
If you are interested in learning more about the Foster Grandparent’s Program, just visit Catholic Charities’ website.
