Grandparents raising grandchildren in a troubled world

Mayo Free Press

September 20, 2006

Ira Mikell, Free Press Reporter

George Dunn is a local, living example of how grandparents have raised their grandchildren successfully, regardless of how many adversities this world throws at their feet. He hopes his success story will provide inspiration and encouragement to grandparents everywhere, and especially for those in our county, who are raising their grandchildren in a troubled world.

Dunn was raised by his grandparents Angus MacMillan and his wife, Annie Ruth since he was about two years old. He lived with them until he was in the 10th grade.

According to Dunn, the reason his grandparents took him under their wings was because his mother and father were divorced. He also said his mother and father believed it would be best if he were raised by his "Papaw and Mamaw," as he calls them, rather than having to endure growing up in an unstable environment.

As he was growing up, Dunn learned some of the chores such as taking care of the cows and hogs. He also got to help make syrup. His grandfather also planted corn and watermelons.

Dunn's grandparents were always able to get by on what they had. According to Dunn, they did not need a lot of money to provide and take care of him. He said he was very thankful to be raised by his grandparents in a loving and stable home. "God gave me what I needed," Dunn said.

Through the years, Dunn said he has observed more and more grandparents being forced to raise their grandchildren than ever before. According to Dunn, many of the grandparents are having to raise them because there is no other person or relative who is willing to stand up and take responsibility for the children. He cites parents going to jail as one of many causes for this trend.

For those who are raising their grandchildren, or are thinking about it, he provides a small piece of advice. "Raise them as your own, give them the best you have, and teach them right from wrong," Dunn said.

Dunn and his wife Elaine moved to Hatch Bend several years ago and attend Hatch Bend Baptist Church where he serves as Pastor.