Regaining Independence

Lisa has always been an independent woman. Although she moved all over the country as a young woman, she always found a job. When her marriage collapsed after just a few years, she worked hard as a single mother to support her family.

It wasn’t long after Lisa came to Calvary that she started pursuing a different kind of work that is beneficial to herself and to others. She learned about the Foster Grandparent Program through a community action agency in DC. Foster grandparents serve as role models, mentors and friends to children in the community with special needs. They volunteer their time at hospitals, daycare center, juvenile correctional facilities and other locations.

Lisa set her sights on becoming a Foster Grandparent at a hospital, and went through the lengthy process of applying and undergoing a full background check. She was accepted to the program and took a two-week instructional class before being placed in a daycare. Now every weekday, she spends several hours providing comfort and care to babies in need by feeding them, rocking them and playing with them. She hopes that soon she will be able to work in a hospital.

When Lisa first came to Calvary, she says that she had lost more than just a home – she had lost part of herself. Volunteering her time to care for others has revived Lisa’s spirit. She beams with pride as she talks about caring for infants and comforting them when they cry.

“You always learn from mistakes. I’ve had plenty of them, but I always learned,” Lisa says with a broad smile. “I’m still Lisa. I’m proud of myself.”