School days are now upon us, local children, teachers, and administrators aren't the only ones packing their lunches and sharpening their pencils. Preparations were also underway for the volunteers of the Foster Grandparents Program of Economic Opportunity Authority, Inc., to return to local elementary schools where they assist in providing services to students with special or exceptional needs.

"As America goes back to school, our Foster Grandparents join thousands of Senior Corps volunteers who serve in school settings throughout the country," says Debbie W. Walker, Foster Grandparent Director. Nationally, one-third of all Foster Grandparents help young children with special needs improve their literacy skills by serving in public and private schools. Roughly the same number of Foster Grandparents address early childhood intervention issues by working with children in Head Start programs and day care centers.

"The Foster Grandparent harnesses the time, talent, and experience of one generation for the benefit of another," says Ms. Walker. "The impact that a relatively small group of senior volunteers can have on students and an entire school is truly remarkable."

If you are interested in becoming a Foster Grandparent, please contact Debbie W. Walker or Linda H. Fields, Project Coordinator at the Economic Opportunity Authority, Inc., at 912-234- 7842.