Skip Generations celebrated the addition of 10 new grandparent mentors at graduation ceremonies at the Monroe County Office of the Aging on July 14. The graduates, all of whom are Skip Generations members who are raising grandchildren, have completed a 15-week training curriculum to become leaders and role models to other grandparents raising grandchildren. They will provide advocacy, support, and resources during twice monthly home visits to grandparents who are unable to attend Skip Generations support groups.

Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks addressed the graduates, family members, state and county representatives, and other guests about the importance of the Skip Generations program. According to Mary Jo Brach, service director at Family Resource Centers of Crestwood Children’s Center, “She brought the public eye to this small program and acknowledged its value to the community.” Mary Jo also believes the ceremonies highlighted the superb leadership Linda James has provided to Skip Generations since 1997. “Linda has brought the program to such a high level of service,” Mary Jo says. “As a caregiver herself, she understands the challenges our grandparents face. She has been a tireless advocate at the local, state and national levels.”

Linda hopes the graduation ceremonies helped to get information about Skip Generations out to more kinship caregivers in the community. “I’m overwhelmed and excited about having 10 new mentors,” she says, “but we still need to go further. We’ve accomplished so much, but there’s so much more to do.” She hopes to start a group for grandfathers raising grandchildren, a group for Spanish speaking grandparents, and groups for suburban caregivers. 

Skip Generations needs volunteers to help recruit new members by attending open houses at schools and staffing a Skip Generations display at Family Court and the Department of Social Services. For more information or to volunteer your time, contact Linda James at (585) 436-0370 x302 or email ljames@hillside.com.