Adopt-a-Grandparent Program
for Macalester Students

"Adopt-a-Grandparent" is our hallmark program that fosters a one-to-one relationship between a Macalester student and a neighborhood 'grandparent.' We provide an opportunity for students to engage with an elderly person, often of a different socio-economic, ethnic, and/or cultural background. Students often form a bond that goes beyond friendly visiting. They gain insights and form new perspectives on how social theory plays out over a lifespan.

 

Partnership with Macalester College

Macalester-Groveland Seniors has been affiliated with the Community Service Office at Macalester College since 1986. Through this partnership we connect the resources of the college with needs in the Macalester-Groveland community.

Service is an integral part of learning and life. MGS provides Macalester students and staff opportunities for service and involvement in the community. Over the years many students involved in MACTION have engaged in one-time service projects for MGS, and our Program serves as a site for service projects during "Staff Week."

Engaging with senior citizens offers an aspect of diversity not commonly found on college campuses. Through involvement with our program students get first-hand experience with people whose life experiences differ dramatically from their own. Additionally, students can learn about some of the problems facing the larger community and take action to transform it.