Two grandpas from New York are stepping up for young boys in their community who may not have a father figure in their lives.
Frank Williams and Jim Isenberg saw a gap — and decided to fill it.
Isenberg, who works with the White Plains Youth Bureau, spends time with kids, many of whom are growing up without a male role model. That’s when the idea for Grandpas United came to life.
“I said to Frank, ‘Why don’t we start an organization to bring grandfathers together?’” Williams shared on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.”
Isenberg added, “When men retire, a lot of them don’t have a plan for what’s next. So we created an intergenerational mentoring program for boys who may not have a father figure. That’s what we do—we stand in the gap.”
Together, Williams and Isenberg now lead over 50 programs, including summer enrichment, before- and after-school activities, camps, and more.
“Through shared activities and mentoring, our grandfathers connect with each other while offering steady guidance, encouragement, and care to future generations,” reads the Grandpas United website.
Founded in White Plains in 2018, Grandpas United has since expanded to other Westchester communities like Port Chester, Ossining, and New Rochelle.
While staying true to their roots — using the wisdom, skills, and life experiences of grandfathers to strengthen the community — Grandpas United has grown. More diverse volunteers from across Westchester County are joining in, drawn to the simple but powerful idea that wisdom doesn’t retire.
By showing up, sharing stories, and being present, these grandfathers are helping shape a generation through connection and community.