James West has twelve nieces and nephews, whom he helped put throught college. All have graduated and are successful in their chosen fields. Mr. West is currently volunteering as a Foster Grandparent with the Chicago Department of Aging. He served at a day care center for the first seven years, and he is now serving at La Rabida Hospital where he has volunteered for the last five years.

"Grandpa James", as the children and hospital staff like to call him, selects books to read and has the children, as well as their parents and siblings, gather around the children's round table in the Ambulatory Servicess lobby to take part in story reading time.
--Chicago Department On Aging