On Sunday, Sept. 7, Canada marks Grandparents Day: a time to recognize the presence and values grandparents bring to our lives.
In Cochrane, the role of grandparent isn’t just a family title. It also belongs to those who dedicate their time and energy to connect with younger generations — people like Hamish Kerfoot.
Kerfoot grew up in a tight-knit community west of town, where volunteering was simply part of life.
“My parents volunteered for various community things,” he said. “It’s how stuff got done in the community.”
From the Rural Electrical Association to the local horse show, Kerfoot’s family instilled a strong sense of civic duty. He carried that forward, eventually serving as a board member with Cochrane Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
“They realized a lot of the clients they were serving didn’t just live in Cochrane,” he said. “They lived in the surrounding municipal district of Rocky View and they needed some representation.”
It was during his time with FCSS that Kerfoot discovered another opportunity: the Cochrane Seniors for Kids Society. The program pairs “volunteer grandparents” with students from local schools.
“I like volunteering and being connected to Westbrook School, where I was a student in 1963,” Kerfoot said. “I like to meet local rural kids, those that need someone to talk to, to listen to, to advocate for them. It’s a way to connect with the next generation.”
Kerfoot’s first pairing came in 2016, when he was matched with a boy who had just moved to the area.
“He was a very quiet and shy middle school student,” Kerfoot recalled. “Usually one- or two-word answers. I was starting to be concerned that he didn’t want to be in the program.”
But week after week, Kerfoot showed up and the boy began to open up.
“I learned he liked cars and trucks,” Kerfoot said. “We started working on a truck model during our Wednesdays together. He was extremely bright and we became quick friends. He’s in college now, and I feel I helped contribute to his success by being the friend he needed.”
Since then, Kerfoot has mentored 15 students through Seniors for Kids. For him, it’s a chance to stay active in the community while connecting with youth.
“I like being around kids because I don’t have any grandchildren of my own,” he said. “Just being with kids and interacting with them gives you energy. I love their variety and creativity. They’re great to be around.”
Kerfoot often shares stories and photos from his ranch and travels, and in return he gets a window into what life is like for kids growing up in today’s digital world.
“They’re not just younger than me,” he said. “They’re born into a world that’s completely different than the one I grew up in. It’s amazing.”
As an honorary grandparent, Kerfoot says the gratitude he receives makes the effort worthwhile: whether through a thank-you card, kind words or even a spontaneous hug on a chance encounter in town.
“Hamish is an instrumental grandparent for our intergenerational program at Westbrook School,” said Lynn Noble, program coordinator for Seniors for Kids. “He is a fantastic mentor and is able to connect with students in elementary and middle school on all different levels, and we’re very grateful to have him.”
With a new school year underway, Kerfoot is preparing to be paired with another student. He says he plans to keep volunteering as long as he’s able.
“I hope I have sufficient wisdom to be a proper grandparent,” he joked. “But they haven’t kicked me out of the program yet, so I guess I must be doing alright.”
