When Mrs. Mary Welch joined Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio’s AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program in 2017, she brought with her a deep love for children and a lifelong passion for learning. The Foster Grandparent Program pairs older adults with students who benefit from extra encouragement, academic support, and caring mentorship. Over the years, she has served students of every age, from preschoolers to high schoolers, offering encouragement, stability, and joy to classrooms across our community.
For the past three years, Mrs. Welch has been placed at Central Baptist
School, where Principal Donna Hempelmann describes her as nothing short of a “God send.” When Principal Hempelmann first arrived at the school, resources were limited and there was no budget for extra
enrichment opportunities. Then came Mrs. Welch.
Seeing a need, Mrs. Welch took it upon herself to create a school library from the ground up. She organized the space, stocked shelves, and reached out to the community for book donations. Her passion for reading quickly became contagious. “She was full of creativity, determination, and heart,” shared Principal Hempelmann.
That library exists today because of Mrs. Welch’s belief that once a child learns to read, their world opens up. It gives them the tools to explore, imagine, and express their feelings.
But Mrs. Welch didn’t stop there.
She also launched a student puppeteer program, giving children the chance to write their own stories and bring them to life on stage. Through this creative outlet, students discovered new ways to express themselves, collaborate, and build confidence.
Her love of the arts extends to music as well. Mrs. Welch has been teaching students about classical music through books and storytelling, an effort that, thanks to generous donations, culminated in a special trip last spring to a performance at the Cincinnati Museum Center. For many students, it was their first experience with live classical music.
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Welch continues to share her gifts. She collects puppets and even performed at the Foster Grandparent Program’s newly created annual talent show this summer, delighting fellow volunteers and staff.
Mrs. Welch’s service is a beautiful example of what happens when one person shares their passion with others. Through books, music, creativity, and compassion, she has enriched the lives of countless
children, and inspired a school community to dream bigger.
Her story reminds us that the simplest acts of love can create lasting change.