Stories of Service

A Foster Grandparent As Sweet As Can Be

Pat Mazor

Foster Grandparents - Wexford County

Sweet, kindhearted and compassionate all describe Pat Mazor. Pat possesses a huge heart and shares it with the children she mentors.

Pat has been a Foster Grandparent Volunteer in Wexford County for almost 6 years! She helps to mentor the children at Betsie Valley Elementary.

Pat is a wonderful volunteer who really loves the children, the staff and those in the community that she serves. She gives her all to them.

What prompted you to get involved?   - A friend was serving as a Senior Companion. She knew I didn’t want to be just sitting around and came over to tell me about the program she volunteered in. She said that there was a program for working with children which I have a love for.  I thought it sounded like a great idea and got signed up.

How has volunteering with benefited you? -It has kept me going. I didn’t want to sit around with nothing to do. This makes me feel more alive. It helps by giving me a reason to get up and go. Also the warm feeling you get when you see the children that you help.

What keeps you volunteering year after year?  -That I am making a difference in children’s lives. Many children need a little extra TLC and we as a FG give them that by making time for them.

What is one of your most memorable moments as a Foster Grandparent? - I cannot say I have just one, it is too hard to pick just one. Every day you go volunteer at the elementary school there is something good that happens. I enjoy seeing the smile on a child’s face when they have been a bit down.

What other community services/organizations are you involved in?    -I used to be a girl scout leader, with my children. I was involved in the kid’s baseball and roller-skating. I really was actively involved in all of my children’s activities.

What are some of your hobbies that keep you busy outside of being a Foster Grandparent? -I love to read very much. I really enjoy James Patterson novels. I also consider the children at school as a big part of my life. I love seeing them at school and community events.

What would you say to someone interested in being a Foster Grandparent volunteer? - I would tell them to go for it!  You will not regret it. It really helps to improve your quality of life. The adults that you meet in the program as well as at your site are great. You are making a difference in a child’s life. You are lighting a candle in their life that helps to bring them out of the dark.

Thank you so much Pat for your commitment to the program! We value you and your time that you give!