Foster Grandparent Program

 
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“She's always there when we need her for a friend or a laugh or a hug.”

The Foster Grandparent Program provides an opportunity for volunteers age 55 and older to stay active by giving between 10 and 40 hours a week to provide emotional and educational support to children in the classroom.

 

While sharing their wisdom and years of experience, they help guide children on a path to success. Foster Grandparents serve as tutors and mentors to young people in schools, Head Starts and child development centers. Foster Grandparent Volunteers read with children, support their academic learning and social development, and help teachers by giving each child the time and attention they need. In return, they develop rich, meaningful relationships in the community.

 
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The Foster Grandparent Program is just one of the National AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer programs, funded by AmeriCorps and sponsored locally by The Opportunity Alliance. TOA sponsors the Foster Grandparent Program in three southern Maine counties: Cumberland, York and western Oxford.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Be age 55 or older

  • Meet income guidelines set by AmeriCorps, including gross income from all sources, which is reviewed annually, in order to receive the stipend

  • Provide documentation of a physical exam from a medical professional that certifies applicant is capable, with or without accommodation, of volunteering without detriment to themselves or the people they serve

  • Pass all criminal history and background checks

Benefits:

  • Mental and physical health benefits that come from staying active and involved in the community through this meaningful volunteer role

  • Training prior to and during service 

  • Annual recognition

  • Supervision 

  • If income eligible, a stipend, travel and meal reimbursements (all benefits are tax-free and do not affect social security, SSI/SSDI, subsidized housing, food stamps, LIHEAP, or other programs)

resources

To receive more information about volunteering as a Foster Grandparent, please contact us:

Phone: (207) 773-0202
Toll-free: 1-877-429-6884
or fill out this form

To have a Foster Grandparent placed at your location, please contact us:

Phone: (207) 773-0202
Toll-free: 1-877-429-6884 Fax: (207) 874-1182

Fgp@opportunityalliance.org

Address:
222 Saint John Street, Suite 302-B, Portland, ME 04102

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Testimonials

“Having Grammy in our classroom allows each child to get the adult attention that they need. Her help is essential on a daily basis.”
— Teacher

“It gets me up and out in the morning, allows me to pay gas and insurance on my car so I can be independent, and it lets me contribute my experience to children who benefit from the one-on-one help I provide.”
— Volunteer