On June 11, 2024, Ava Froedge from Columbia was recognized as the district winner in the “AARP Kentucky Grandparent of the Year” essay contest. Ava is among thousands of Kentucky fifth graders participating in the annual essay competition. For the past 23 years, AARP Kentucky and Kentucky Retired Teachers Association (KTRA) have sponsored the statewide competition.
The competition is one way to pay tribute to the significant contributions of older Kentuckians shaping the lives and values of children across the Commonwealth. An increasing number of adults 50-plus are the primary caregivers to minors. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 98,000 children in Kentucky are living with or being reared by a grandparent householder.
The “AARP Grandparent of the Year” essay contest is coordinated by local Retired Teacher Association units. These groups help secure local school participation, promote the activity, and serve as local judges. Ava Froedge from Adair County Elementary School received an engraved plaque, $50.00 (AARP), and $25.00 (Adair County Retired Teacher Association).
