Departments

Foster Grandparent Program

Volunteers mentor children with special needs.

Last Modified: August 02, 2011

Foster Grandparents give children with special needs the individual attention they need to succeed in life. With the help of Foster Grandparents, these children develop skills and gain confidence.

Foster Grandparents serve an average of 20 hours a week, working with children ages 6 months to 8 years. They receive orientation and training, a physical exam, supplemental insurance and help with meal and transportation costs. Those who qualify also receive a small stipend.

The Foster Grandparent Program is part of Senior Corps, a nationwide program sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service and administered locally by the City of Raleigh Community Services Department.

Eligibility

To be a Foster Grandparent, you must:

  • Be age 55 or over.
  • Meet income guidelines as established by the federal government.
  • Care about children and want to help their individual growth and development.
  • Be physically and mentally able to serve.
  • Accept supervision as required.

Orientation and Training

Foster Grandparents receive 40 hours of orientation and pre-service training. This includes 20 hours of classroom training, provided by the staff of the Foster Grandparent program, and 20 hours in which participants shadow experienced Foster Grandparents.

During orientation, Foster Grandparents learn about the purpose, benefits and regulations of the program, volunteer sites and children to be served.

Foster Grandparents in Raleigh gather for regular training sessions.

Stipend

Foster Grandparents serve four hours per day, five days a week. For their services, they receive an hourly stipend. The amount is set by the Corporation for National and Community Service and is not based on the minimum wage. Payments to volunteers do not reduce eligibility for government assistance or services.

Did you know...

Best American City

– Businessweek.com