The not-for-profit North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) marked the 50th anniversary of the Foster Grandparent Program with a recognition luncheon June 11.The event was held at the NECAC Gentemann Manor Senior Apartments complex community room in O’Fallon. NECAC is one of 19 not-for-profit Community Action Agencies in Missouri and one of more than 1,000 agencies in the nation, and operates the Foster Grandparent Program in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties through a contract with the federally funded Corporation for National and Community Service.Missouri State Rep. Anne Zerr, R-65, of St. Charles, was the keynote speaker. She thanked the 50 FGP members for making a difference in the lives of thousands of children in St. Charles, Lincoln and Warren counties.NECAC President and Chief Executive Officer Don Patrick showcased the program’s history and benefits.Patrick also praised volunteers for their dedication.Recognized during the banquet were FGP members Debra Abue Raqabeh, John Adams, Rosemary Bagin, Mary Ellen Baker, Connie Boschert, Lorraine Boykin, John Calcaterra, Carol Chianta, Linda Coleman, Cheryl Dartt, Diana DeLong, Barbara Dunnermann, Sue Fairall, Patsy Frost, Phyllis Ginn, Judy Harris, Agnes Hill, Janice Holmes, Betty Hunn, Sandy Hunter, Nancy Jesse, Doris Jordan, Cheryl Jorgensen, Troyena Kehoe and Irene Kestin.Also, Sharon Kiderlen, Lena Knight, Diana Lott, Jane Luckett, Patricia Lumsden, Cheryl Meyers, Pamela Moore, Bill Moran, Catherin Nicosia, Barbara O’Donnell, Patricia Ojile, Olivia Pailer, Shirley Pauk, Barbara Rockwell, Natalie Serra, Carol Smith, Barbara Soelle, Carolyn Sullivan, Leona Taylor, Deborah Vaughn, Bonnie Ventucci, Naomi Watson, Colleen Wells, Patricia Wilks and Sharon Will.In attendance were NECAC Board Members Anita Telkamp and Diane Hileman of St. Charles County and Fred Layton of Lincoln County.Any person ages 55 and older may become a foster grandparent, but some applicants who meet income guidelines may be eligible for a tax-free stipend. A benefit package and training are provided with 14 paid holidays.All grandparents volunteer 15 to 40 hours per week and must pass a Missouri State Child Abuse and Neglect Screening. In addition to working with children, participants get the benefit of paid insurance, transportation reimbursement and an annual recognition luncheon.More information is available by calling NECAC FGP Coordinator Tina Fairall at 636-272-3477.NECAC