Community Action director earns national recognition
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — A local program director is receiving national recognition for her work supporting Foster Grandparent volunteers and the children they serve.
Krista Graves, Foster Grandparent Program director with Community Action of Southern Kentucky, is one of three recipients nationwide of the AmeriCorps Seniors Innovative Service Award.
Graves was recognized for developing new programs and initiatives designed to support Foster Grandparent volunteers and improve their service to children across the region.
Graves, a former educator, said her own experience working alongside Foster Grandparents showed her the impact they can have in classrooms.
“As a former educator, I was lucky enough to have foster grandparents in my room,” Graves said. “I know what an impact they make every day.”
Under Graves’ leadership, the program has introduced additional training opportunities, including Conscious Discipline, which helps volunteers better understand children’s behavior and build positive relationships.
The program also provides training focused on nutrition, healthy cooking and emotional well-being.
Community Action of Southern Kentucky Executive Director Carla Brown said Graves’ ability to develop new ideas is what stood out to her about the award.
“The one that stuck out to me was the innovative award,” Brown said. “And that is Krista all day long. She’s always coming up with new ideas and initiatives for her Foster Grandparents.”
The Foster Grandparent Program provides volunteers age 55 and older with opportunities to mentor, support and encourage children from infancy through age 21.
Volunteers serve in schools, Head Start programs, child care centers, after-school programs, group homes and other community settings.
The program serves a 10-county area that includes Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson and Warren counties.
Graves said the program benefits both the children and the older adults who volunteer.
“Our volunteers are giving of their hearts, and this is an opportunity for them to remain active, to have a purpose and to really give back to their community,” Graves said.
The program is always looking for new volunteers. Volunteers must be at least 55 years old and meet income eligibility requirements.
Those interested in becoming a Foster Grandparent can visit casoky.org and select the AmeriCorps Seniors section for more information.
People can also call 270-782-3162, extension 131, to learn more about becoming a Foster Grandparent.
