Honoring the Foster Grandparent Program

Shown above, volunteers of the Foster Grandparent Program visit the Capitol to be recognized by the General Assembly for their admirable work with local youth.

Shown above, Sen. Curls' presents the courtesy resolution to members of the Foster Grandparent Program.

For 50 years, the Foster Grandparent Program, established by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal department, has given seniors in our communities the opportunity to impart their wisdom and knowledge to younger generations and serve as positive role models. It’s no secret that children in our urban core often face an uphill battle toward personal success, due to a number of causes. Foster grandparents show these children that those obstacles can be overcome, and that through hard-work and dedication, no goal is out-of-reach.

I’ve long supported this amazing program, and am constantly heartened to hear of how this program is having a positive impact on the lives of youth in our area. Volunteers of the foster grandparent program help children learn to read through one-on-one tutoring; mentor troubled teenagers and young mothers; care for premature infants or children with disabilities; and help children who have been abused or neglected. More often than not, these volunteers are the only source of comfort and caring these children receive. I am humbled by the services these foster grandparents provide.

For this reason, and many others, I was honored last week to sponsor a courtesy resolution in the Senate recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Foster Grandparent Program. It was also wonderful to welcome a group from the organization to the Capitol and introduce them on the Senate floor. My colleagues were moved upon hearing of the work this program does in our state.

I also highly encourage seniors in our area to consider volunteering their time to such a worthy cause. 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 serve from 15 to 40 hours per week in locations including schools, hospitals, juvenile correctional institutions, daycare facilities or Head Start centers. Volunteers receive pre-service orientation, training from the organization where you will serve, supplemental accident and liability insurance, and meals while on duty. Volunteers who meet certain income guidelines also receive a small stipend.

For more information, click here or visit www.nationalservice.gov/programs/senior-corps/foster-grandparents. You can also call (800) 942-2677.