Our Intergenerational Programs
Through shared activities and mentoring, our Grandpas connect with one another while offering steady guidance, encouragement, and caring to future generations. The programs at each Grandpas United chapter may vary slightly. See below for a sampling of what we do.
Grandpas Go To School
A heart-warming favorite, Grandpas Go To School brings our Grandpas together with small groups of 3rd-5th grade youth who would benefit from the steady, caring presence of positive male role models. By showing up regularly, whether to chat, listen, or simply be there, our Grandpas offer encouragement, stability, and a sense of belonging to students who may not have that support at home. These visits build meaningful connections and remind youth that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
High School Mentoring
Grandpas United mentors visit students at White Plains High School and Rochambeau School, creating meaningful one-on-one and small-group connections with young people who benefit from reliable, compassionate male role models. Our Grandpas help students build confidence, set goals, and stay engaged in school and community life, through life-skills conversations and simply being a reliable presence.
Summer Employment
The Grandpas work hand in hand with the Youth Bureau to coach incoming Summer Employment Program students on communications skills and expectations in the workplace. By sharing their experiences and engaging in meaningful conversations, the Grandpas help high school students develop workplace readiness, confidence, and interpersonal skills.
S.I.T.E. Program
The Senior Individualized Tiger Experience (S.I.T.E.) gives high school seniors a chance to explore careers they’re interested in after graduation. Whether in healthcare, business, the arts, trades, or tech, students get hands-on experience to see how their goals and dreams might take shape in the real world. Grandpas United members also pitch in by helping students find internship placements for career path exploration.
High School Awards Programs
To celebrate student leadership and community service, Grandpas United in White Plains sponsors an annual High School Awards Program. Each year, they honor five students who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to civic engagement. In addition, their Solomon Gibbons Legacy Award program selects outstanding students pursuing a career in the trades. These initiatives affirm a deep belief in the younger generation as a force for positive change, inspiring students to step forward with confidence and integrity, regardless of the career path they choose.
Juvenile Justice/Youth Court
Grandpas United™chapters often partner with local juvenile justice initiatives, such as White Plains Youth Court, to mentor youth who have made mistakes but are ready for a second chance. Our Grandpas provide steady, non-judgmental guidance to help these youth reflect on their choices, build confidence, and set positive goals for the future. By forming genuine, caring relationships, Grandpas offer the kind of support and wisdom that helps them get back on track and stay connected to their community in a meaningful way.
Youth-Police Initiative
Grandpas United™ in White Plains regularly sponsors NAFI’s Youth-Police Initiative (YPI) workshop to bring together at-risk youth and local police officers in a safe, structured setting focused on building trust and preventing crime. Through trust-building activities, shared meals, and open conversations, participants discover common ground and begin to break down barriers. These honest, face-to-face interactions create mutual understanding and respect, allowing both youth and officers to talk openly about their experiences and concerns. The goal is to build trust, strengthen relationships and empower everyone involved to play a role in creating safer communities.
JumpStart for Dads
JumpStart for Dads (JSFD) is an evidence-informed fathering skills course, developed by Grandpas United™ members in conjunction with the White Plains Youth Bureau. This free virtual support program is designed to help fathers and expectant fathers build positive parenting skills. Topics include various aspects of fatherhood, including family history, communication, child development, and financial management. Facilitated by experienced community fathers and grandfathers, JSFD is offered in both English and Spanish. Through guided discussions, shared experiences and practical tools, participants gain insight, confidence, and a supportive peer network to help them build strong, positive relationships with their children and grow as fathers. Learn More...
New York Fathering Conference
Grandpas United™ is proud to co-sponsor the annual New York Fathering Conference, held each spring in White Plains. This impactful event brings together nearly 400 fathers, grandfathers, and community leaders to address issues like employment, housing, mental health, family development, and justice reform. The conference fosters an exchange of ideas and explores strategies to improve outcomes for families and communities. It’s a space for learning, collaboration, and empowerment—highlighting the vital role fathers and grandfathers play in strengthening families and shaping future generations.
Coffee With Grandpas
The cornerstone of every Grandpas United chapter, Coffee with Grandpas is a warm, welcoming gathering where our Grandpa volunteers meet monthly to stay engaged in community life. Along with conversation and camaraderie, these meetups often include visits from local leaders and community stakeholders, as well as informative health talks from local hospitals. Special guests, such as speakers from Major League Baseball and local celebrities, also join us to inspire and entertain. It’s a meaningful way to stay informed, build friendships, and continue making a positive impact together.
Memoir Writing Group
Grandpas love sharing their stories. Our bi-weekly Memoir Writing Group offers a meaningful way to boost mental health while fostering friendships. The process of writing and reflecting together sparks conversation, builds connection, and strengthens one’s sense of purpose. Grandpas look back on their life experiences and share their stories filled with lessons, laughter, and sometimes surprises. Along the way, they build meaningful connections with others who appreciate their story, and they create something lasting and deeply personal.
Community Activities
Our Grandpa volunteers are actively involved in the community through participation in local events, including:
• Youth-Police Community Barbeque
• National Night Out with local law enforcement
• Grandpas Health Summit with WP Hospital
• White Plains Wellness Festival
• Farmers’ Market Volunteer Recruiting
• White Plains Comic Fest
• Juneteenth Celebrations
• Local Parades
• Grandpas Got Talent Showcase
Ready to make a difference?
Signing up is easy. Just fill out our short volunteer form and we’ll be in touch to get to know you and match you with opportunities that fit your interests and schedule.
