What are these seniors doing after retirement? It may warm your heart
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In a world where headlines often focus on generational divides, it’s heartening to see stories that bridge the gap—especially when those bridges are built on wisdom, patience, and a little bit of old-fashioned tender love and care.
Right here in Augusta, Georgia, a quiet revolution is underway: local seniors are rolling up their sleeves, dusting off their flashcards, and stepping into classrooms as volunteer tutors, changing lives one lesson at a time.
The Power of Purpose: Seniors Stepping Up
For many at The GrayVine, retirement is a time to reflect, relax, and maybe pick up a new hobby or two.
But for folks like Karen Holden, it’s also a time to rediscover purpose. Karen, a proud member of the Senior Citizens Council for nearly a decade, admits she once wondered what her legacy would be.
“I felt like I did not have a purpose. If something happened to me, what would people remember me for? Nothing,” she shared candidly.
That all changed when she discovered the Foster Grandparents Program—a heartwarming initiative that pairs seniors 55 and older with local students who could use a little extra help in school.
Now, Karen is affectionately known as “Grandma Karen” to six children she mentors four days a week.
Some of her students are on the autism spectrum, others just need a guiding hand or a listening ear. But all of them benefit from the steady presence and encouragement of a caring adult.
A Win-Win for All Generations
The Foster Grandparents Program, run by the Senior Citizens Council (a nonprofit that’s been championing seniors since 1968), currently boasts about 50 volunteers serving in 15 Richmond County schools and two in Jefferson County.
These “grandparents” aren’t just reading stories or helping with homework—they’re building relationships, modeling resilience, and showing kids that learning is a lifelong adventure.
Also read: Will your benefits keep up? What to know about the 2026 COLA
Executive Director Kathleen Ernce explains how it works: “The teacher develops an assignment plan for the foster grandparent. They talk about it. This is what Johnny, Mary, and Susie need, by using flashcards, colors, whatever the teacher wants you to use.”
It’s a team effort, with teachers and volunteers working hand-in-hand to support each child’s unique needs.
And the results? They’re nothing short of inspiring. “It’s not always an easy task, but it’s a challenging task,” Karen admits. “But like I said, you get fulfillment. One little thing you see improvement in means everything to you.”
The Ripple Effect: More Than Just Tutoring
But the benefits don’t stop at better grades or improved reading skills. For the seniors involved, volunteering is a powerful antidote to loneliness and a boost to self-esteem.
Studies have shown that older adults who volunteer regularly experience lower rates of depression, improved cognitive function, and even longer lifespans. It’s a classic case of “doing good feels good”—and it’s backed by science!
For the children, the impact goes far beyond academics. Many of these students may not have grandparents nearby, or may be facing challenges at home.
Having a consistent, caring adult in their corner can make all the difference, providing stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Beyond the Classroom: Advocacy and Support
The Senior Citizens Council doesn’t stop at tutoring. They also offer advocacy programs, casework services, and financial management support for seniors who need a helping hand.
Also read: Proposed budget changes could affect senior services—here’s what to know
“The focus is protecting the seniors by whatever means we can do,” says Ernce.
How You Can Get Involved (Or Benefit!)
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Maybe I could do that,” you’re not alone!
The program is always looking for new volunteers. As Karen puts it, “I would say get out there and try it because it doesn’t only bless those children. It blesses you, too. You’ve got to feel good about yourself before you can help somebody else.”
And if you have grandchildren or know a child who could use a little extra support, consider reaching out to local organizations like the Senior Citizens Council.
Sometimes, the best tutors aren’t the ones with the fanciest degrees—they’re the ones with the biggest hearts.
Read next: Did you miss your high school prom? This event is giving seniors a second chance to dance
Have you volunteered as a tutor or mentor? Did a special teacher or grandparent make a difference in your life? Or are you thinking about getting involved but have questions? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and thoughts in the comments below!
Right here in Augusta, Georgia, a quiet revolution is underway: local seniors are rolling up their sleeves, dusting off their flashcards, and stepping into classrooms as volunteer tutors, changing lives one lesson at a time.
The Power of Purpose: Seniors Stepping Up
For many at The GrayVine, retirement is a time to reflect, relax, and maybe pick up a new hobby or two.
But for folks like Karen Holden, it’s also a time to rediscover purpose. Karen, a proud member of the Senior Citizens Council for nearly a decade, admits she once wondered what her legacy would be.
“I felt like I did not have a purpose. If something happened to me, what would people remember me for? Nothing,” she shared candidly.
That all changed when she discovered the Foster Grandparents Program—a heartwarming initiative that pairs seniors 55 and older with local students who could use a little extra help in school.
Senior citizens in Augusta are volunteering as tutors for local students through the Senior Citizens Council, helping children who need extra support at school. Image source: TODAY / Youtube.
Now, Karen is affectionately known as “Grandma Karen” to six children she mentors four days a week.
Some of her students are on the autism spectrum, others just need a guiding hand or a listening ear. But all of them benefit from the steady presence and encouragement of a caring adult.
A Win-Win for All Generations
The Foster Grandparents Program, run by the Senior Citizens Council (a nonprofit that’s been championing seniors since 1968), currently boasts about 50 volunteers serving in 15 Richmond County schools and two in Jefferson County.
These “grandparents” aren’t just reading stories or helping with homework—they’re building relationships, modeling resilience, and showing kids that learning is a lifelong adventure.
Also read: Will your benefits keep up? What to know about the 2026 COLA
Executive Director Kathleen Ernce explains how it works: “The teacher develops an assignment plan for the foster grandparent. They talk about it. This is what Johnny, Mary, and Susie need, by using flashcards, colors, whatever the teacher wants you to use.”
It’s a team effort, with teachers and volunteers working hand-in-hand to support each child’s unique needs.
And the results? They’re nothing short of inspiring. “It’s not always an easy task, but it’s a challenging task,” Karen admits. “But like I said, you get fulfillment. One little thing you see improvement in means everything to you.”
The Ripple Effect: More Than Just Tutoring
But the benefits don’t stop at better grades or improved reading skills. For the seniors involved, volunteering is a powerful antidote to loneliness and a boost to self-esteem.
The foster grandparents program allows people aged 55 and over to work with primary and special needs students, providing guidance, love, and academic help. Image source: 11Alive / Youtube.
Studies have shown that older adults who volunteer regularly experience lower rates of depression, improved cognitive function, and even longer lifespans. It’s a classic case of “doing good feels good”—and it’s backed by science!
For the children, the impact goes far beyond academics. Many of these students may not have grandparents nearby, or may be facing challenges at home.
Having a consistent, caring adult in their corner can make all the difference, providing stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Beyond the Classroom: Advocacy and Support
The Senior Citizens Council doesn’t stop at tutoring. They also offer advocacy programs, casework services, and financial management support for seniors who need a helping hand.
Also read: Proposed budget changes could affect senior services—here’s what to know
“The focus is protecting the seniors by whatever means we can do,” says Ernce.
How You Can Get Involved (Or Benefit!)
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Maybe I could do that,” you’re not alone!
Currently, there are about 50 foster grandparents volunteering in 17 schools across Richmond and Jefferson Counties, working closely alongside teachers and students. Image source: 11Alive / Youtube.
The program is always looking for new volunteers. As Karen puts it, “I would say get out there and try it because it doesn’t only bless those children. It blesses you, too. You’ve got to feel good about yourself before you can help somebody else.”
And if you have grandchildren or know a child who could use a little extra support, consider reaching out to local organizations like the Senior Citizens Council.
Sometimes, the best tutors aren’t the ones with the fanciest degrees—they’re the ones with the biggest hearts.
Read next: Did you miss your high school prom? This event is giving seniors a second chance to dance
Have you volunteered as a tutor or mentor? Did a special teacher or grandparent make a difference in your life? Or are you thinking about getting involved but have questions? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, and thoughts in the comments below!
