Why Become a Grandpal?

Just to be able to give that short amount of time to sit down with these young people was worth every minute. And actually, I was disappointed and sad when it was finished.
Susan Parker - Past participant
I think most people do not think they have stories. You’ve got experiences to bring to young people here that are going to be life changing for them…So be that person in their life. That’s going to make a difference.Neil Orford - Historian / Award Winning Educator

You Have a Love for Kids

This might go without saying, but choosing to become a Grandpal starts with a love for kids. You appreciate their energy, enthusiasm, and openness. You have a genuine concern for them and a willingness to help them along - and that’s what makes you the right person for the job!
In order to be a mentor, and an effective one, one must care. You must care. You don’t have to know how many square miles are in Idaho, you don’t need to know what the chemical makeup of chemistry is, or of blood or water. Know what you know and care about the person, care about what you know and care about the person you’re sharing with.Maya Angelou

You Have Stories to Tell

You have important stories to share with an upcoming generation. These might be stories about the world as you’ve experienced it, decisions that you have made during your life, changes you have witnessed in the world around you, different perspectives you have gained, and stories about why things are the way they are now. Students can gain so much from your stories…  
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The World

Your stories on topics such as travel, pets, romance, work, or home all allow students to develop a better understanding of the world they are growing up in today. 

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Decisions

The stories you share about choices and decisions you have made, lessons you have learned, and the values you now hold, will inform and guide students as they progress in their own lives. 

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Changes

Your stories from the past help students become more aware that things have not always been as they are now… Many changes have taken place in very recent history. 

Your stories from the past also help students to understand that some things never change.

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Perspectives

The stories that you share with students will help them to understand that not everyone in the world sees or does things in the same way. From your stories students will gain new perspectives on people, places and even themselves. 

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Reasons

The stories that you share with students will help them understand that the things that they experience now are not completely random. There is a reason why things are the way they are now. 

It’s a personally rewarding experience. Well worth the investment of a few hours of your time.
Don Parker - Past participant