Many people may think that the life of an 80-year old would not be that exciting, but according to Verna Blocker that’s just when life starts to get interesting.

“Life begins at 80,” Blocker said. “It is so enjoyable.”

What makes Blocker’s life so enjoyable? The answer can be found in the service she offers in the community. Blocker, who is now 83, volunteers with the Developmental Center during the summer and is a Foster Grandparent at the SCERA Park School during the school year.

Blocker moved to Utah from Georgia after her husband died 10 years ago. Blocker said she needed something to do and that something came in the form of a TV commercial. She saw an advertisement for the Foster Grandparent program seven years ago and felt drawn to it. Blocker is enthusiastic about helping children and now volunteers over 20 hours a week.

“I’ve always been interested in children,” Blocker said. “This is my calling, to be around children.”

While at the school Blocker helps the children learn to read. Blocker works with the kindergartners, who she says are very intelligent and quick to learn. In between teaching the children to read, Blocker says that she and the children get to play and that they love having an extra grandma around.

“It’s just a hoot, I guarantee you,” Blocker said. “It just keeps me laughing all of the time.”

After having volunteered for the past seven years as a foster grandparent, Blocker has become more than just a visitor to the students—she’s a part of the classroom. In addition to befriending the children, the teachers allow her to get involved in what’s going on in class.

“I just feel like I’m part of the group,” Blocker said. “I’m a grandma to everyone.”

Blocker’s time at the Developmental Center is spent assisting adults who have experienced developmental delays since childhood. Blocker assists those she serves by spending time with them and pushing them around in their wheelchairs.

When Blocker considers the pleasure she receives from volunteering at both the Developmental Center and as a Foster Grandparent she says her life is great.

“It’s really been a blessing for me,” Blocker said. “Between the two of them I am just as happy as I can be.”