Broome Co. Foster Grandparents honored for their hard work in the classroom

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) -- In the classrooms across Broome County are Foster Grandparents making a difference in the lives of students.

The grandparents were recognized Tuesday night for their hard work and dedication.

All 28 of those recognized provide some type of support to the students.

That’s in the form of listening to the students, paying extra attention to those who need it most, keeping positive and much more.

“They are dedicated to making sure that they are going into the classroom every day to see their kids and working with their kids. So, we take this opportunity to celebrate them because what they do is integral to this community,” said Program Director for Foster Grandparents Francie Keefe.

The volunteers also serve as an extra set of eyes in the classroom.

For Foster Grandparent Tammy Treaster, getting to see the success of her students has been the most rewarding.

“They all need a role model, and they need encouragement. The encouragement that we can give them lasts them a lifetime,” said Treaster. “The kids that I had last year come up to me and say, ‘Hey Grandma Tammy, we love you!’ and that just melts your heart.”

If you are interested in becoming a Foster Grandparent, you have to be a Broome Resident 55 years of age or older and have at least five hours a week to volunteer.

For details on how to sign up, you can follow this link.