Foster Grandparent Program

Senior Corps is a network of national service programs for Americans 55 years and older, made up of three primary programs that each address critical community needs including academic tutoring and mentoring, elderly care, disaster relief support, and more. Learn more here.

Foster Grandparents are role models, mentors, and friends to children with exceptional needs. The program provides a way for volunteers age 55 and over to stay active by serving children and youth in their communities.

Foster Grandparents volunteer 15 to 40 hours a week tutoring and mentoring youth. Those who meet the established income guidelines qualify to receive an hourly stipend, mileage reimbursement, and public transportation reimbursement. Other benefits include, accident and personal liability insurance, monthly training, and recognition events.

Volunteer Activities

Tutor and mentor students using curriculum provided by the station supervisor
Provide one-on-one or small group time to students in busy classrooms
Help students increase their reading levels
Help build students’ vocabulary
Help build students’ math and writing skills
Are assigned to children who need a little extra special attention
Exemplify a typical grandparent role that may include talking, listening, reading, playing, walking and caring for a grandchild
Support and assist children in learning and therapy sessions

Volunteer Benefits

While children benefit from the extra attention they receive from volunteers, the teachers appreciate the extra help in the classroom, including the positive influence of an older adult role model. School administrators report that these volunteers influence children in many critical areas not reflected on test scores, such as the ability to build trust in a child, bring a child out of his or her shell, instill confidence in a child, and teach a child how to show patience, respect, and consideration for others.
Benefits of mentoring for volunteers:

Improve in physical health
Improve cognitive activity
Improve mental health (perceived quality of life, reduced feelings of isolation)
Improved self confidence and self esteem
Enjoyment of activities they do with children/youth
Strong connections with others throughout the community

In appreciation of the time Foster Grandparents donate to the program, they are provided with the following benefits:

A tax-free stipend
Accident and liability insurance
Daily lunch
Mileage reimbursement
Paid leave time

All you need to join is the ability to give the kind of comfort and love that sets a child on the path toward a successful future. If you’re 55 or older and want to share your experience and compassion, you have what it takes to be a Foster Grandparent.

Volunteer Enrollment

Foster Grandparents serve youth 15 to 40 hours per week at schools, before-school and after-school programs, daycare facilities, Head Start programs, and achievement centers. The program is open to all U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent resident aliens 55 years of age and over.

Enrollment Process:

Applicants who complete a volunteer enrollment form are interviewed by FGP staff. A State ID or Drivers License, proof of income, and valid auto insurance (if applicable) will be requested during the interview. If the applicant is deemed eligible to serve, they must agree to a State/NSOPW and FBI Fingerprint background check. Once background results are cleared, volunteers attend pre-service orientation training by FGP staff. Volunteers are then stationed at a site according to their interests and location. Volunteer opportunities may vary and are only available based on the needs of the station.

Remember: When you volunteer, you’re not just helping others but you’re helping yourself. Volunteering leads to new discoveries and new friends. Plus, studies show that volunteering helps you live longer and promote a positive outlook on life. So get involved, and join Foster Grandparents today!