Chosen Grandma Ottawa (CGO)

A new initiative has launched in Vanier to build intergenerational connections, called Chosen Grandma Ottawa (CGO). It is a heart-warming, community-driven, volunteer initiative dedicated to fostering meaningful, fun relationships between senior women (ages 55-80) and children (ages 5-14). This not-for-profit program will carefully match children who lack the warmth, attention and support of a grandma-like figure, with senior women volunteers who do not have grandchildren in their lives, or not nearby.

A very rigorous screening and matching process is carried out by CGO with each volunteer senior, and each child and parents to promote safe, engaging and fun activities. CGO hosts monthly meetings with the “chosen grandmas” to develop a support network, share resources and discuss topics on child development. Regular follow up with the “chosen grandma” and the child’s parents ensures a positive match. These intergenerational connections will have a substantial benefit to the well-being of both the children and the seniors.

CGO organizers have extensive background in educational psychology, school administration, and careers of working with children, youth and grandmothers. Safe, fun and positive interactions are at the heart of CGO’s program.  For more information, you can find them on Facebook at Chosen Grandma Ottawa, or by emailing them at chosengrandmaottawa@gmail.com.  They would be happy to connect with you to see if this program interests you, either as a senior volunteer, or as a parent of a child who could benefit from a “chosen grandma”.