Stories of Service

Terry Osinski has been a Foster Grandparent Volunteer for over 12 years in Traverse City.  Grandma Terry is an inspiration, role model, and friend to the children, mothers, women, and staff of the Women’s Resource Center in Traverse City.  Terry is a Foster Grandmother who brings many smiles to the faces of children she meets at the domestic violence emergency shelter and transitional house. When the children hear that Grandma Terry has arrived,  they will often run to the window to watch her walk up the sidewalk to the house. They greet her with smiles and lots of questions about the day’s activities. The children climb up on the chairs and wait patiently as Terry sets out the items she has brought for projects. They tell her about their day and ask her lots of questions about the activities they are about to do.  If time allows, the children will sit for hours engaged in activity with Grandma Terry. Mothers will often join the activities too. Grandma Terry offers an opportunity for a mother and child to engage in activities together that encourage healthy relationships. Grandma Terry’s encouraging words and gentle ways increase the self esteem of the children she works with.  Active children will sit patiently and listen to direction, engage in conversation, and enjoy the activities led by Grandma Terry. When her day is over, she packs up her belongings. The children give her a great big smile and a wave goodbye knowing she will be back tomorrow. Mickie, Child Advocate of the Women's Resourse Center sums it up best by saying, "We are thankful to have her in our lives."