After raising their own children, few expect to start parenting all over again. But that’s the reality for every member of the Kinship group supported by Catholic Charities in Greeley. For 25 years, the Catholic Charities Kinship program has stood beside these caregivers who, often in the middle or later seasons of life, have stepped forward to raise children who need them most. When crisis strikes—whether through loss, addiction, incarceration or other heartbreaking circumstances—these relatives open their homes and hearts to children who might otherwise enter foster care. The need for a Kinship program in Greeley first came to light through Catholic Charities case manager Cheri Anderson. She witnessed grandparents and other relatives quietly shouldering the weight of grief, financial strain and the unexpected return to parenting. Cheri recognized they needed more than just resources—they needed connection. At the same time, similar stories were unfolding in Denver. In response, Catholic Charities – that spans the entire Archdiocese of Denver – launched Kinship—a program rooted in understanding, support and shared community. This sense of community was on full display at the annual Greeley Kinship Family Picnic, a highlight of the year for many of the families involved.
Held each summer, the picnic brings the group together for an afternoon filled with laughter, food and fellowship. This year’s event featured a special treat: free haircuts for the kids, generously provided by Kingdom Cuts. Smiling faces filled the park as children proudly showed off their fresh haircuts, while caregivers enjoyed a much-deserved moment to relax, share stories and connect with others who understand the unique path they walk.
For Carolyn, who has been part of Kinship for over a decade, the group became a lifeline. She had raised her children and was looking forward to retirement when, unexpectedly, she became guardian to her one-year-old grandson. Overwhelmed and isolated, she wasn’t sure how she could manage. “I remember walking into my first Kinship meeting,” Carolyn recalls. “I was exhausted, scared and so alone. But then I met other grandparents who were walking along the same road. I thought, if they can do this, maybe I can too.” Through Kinship, Carolyn found not only practical resources but lifelong friendships. Her grandson also flourished—connecting with other children in similar situations and looking forward to each monthly gathering and special events like the annual picnic. Ruby’s journey began in heartbreak as well. After losing her daughter, she found herself raising her young grandson while navigating through her own grief. She was introduced to Kinship by another member who recognized her pain. “The support this group provides has been life-changing,” she shared. Like Ruby, many grandparents and relatives find Kinship to be a safe space—a place to share struggles, celebrate victories and remember they are not alone. It’s a network of people bound by love, resilience and a fierce commitment to keeping families together.
Today, Catholic Charities continues to offer vital support through its monthly Kinship meetings on the last Monday of each month in Greeley. These gatherings include a shared meal, opportunities to connect with others,and access to valuable community resources. Special events like the annual picnic not only provide fun and relaxation but remind families that they are supported and valued by a wider community. If you’re a grandparent or relative raising a child and are interested in joining the Kinship group in Greeley, contact Cheri Anderson at canderson@ccdenver.org. If you are in the Denver area please contact Carrie Savage at csavage@ccdenver.org. The program is also seeking childcare volunteers to support these monthly meetings. If you’re interested in contributing to Kinship families in Greeley, please reach out to our volunteer coordinator at GreeleyVolunteers@ccdenver.org. In the Denver metro area reach out to volunteer@ccdenver.org