When we bring children into this world, we hold the hope and expectation that they will grow into independent and successful adults. Most of us expect that we will one day be grandparents, getting to spoil and play with grandchildren without the responsibility of being the primary parent. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, 2.4 million grandparents in the United States have had these hopes shattered and are raising a collective 4.5 million children.
Support groups are a helpful way to deal with the unexpected change in life circumstances that parenting grandchildren can bring. Family Support Council's Family Resource Center offers a support group (last Friday of the month at 10 a.m.) for all family members parenting children monthly; there is also a support group the third Thursday at 6 p.m. in Carson City. These groups offer information, referral, support, and friendships to help grandparents and others learn how to parent a new generation while also preparing for retirement and maintaining their adult lives. Meetings may also include speakers and cover topics such as welfare (TANF, Medicaid, food stamps), parenting and mental health concerns, energy assistance, retirement and finances, and coping with guilt and loss issues related to the grandparents' adult children.
The Family Resource Center at Family Support Council offers a variety of programs and assistance for families in Douglas County. In addition to the grandparent support group, the Resource Center offers information and referral for all areas of need, case management and assistance with obtaining basic living necessities such as shelter, food, employment, medical care, and the needs of seniors. Please call Family Support Council's Family Resource Center with any questions or interest in services provided. We are here to help. Call 782-8692.
n Laura Quinn is a resource specialist at the Family Support Council of Douglas County.
