Foster Grandparents

When an older adult connects with a child, the relationship is mutually beneficial. Foster Grandparents have big hearts and love making a difference in the life of a child. Our volunteers work one-on-one with children with special needs in schools, early childhood education centers, medical settings, and shelters to help jumpstart children on a path of success.

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About the Program

In its 40th year, the Foster Grandparent program continues to help preschool-aged children and students in K-3 grade achieve better educational outcomes.

Of the children who were paired with a Foster Grandparent, 100 percent improved their academic performance in literacy or math and 99 percent demonstrated gains in social and emotional development.

The Foster Grandparent Program is part of AmeriCorps Seniors, a program of AmeriCorps, an independent federal agency created to connect Americans of all ages and backgrounds with opportunities to give back to their communities and their nation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact Alex McLemore, Foster Grandparent Program Assistant Director, at 214-525-6125 or amclemore@theseniorsource.org.

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Ms. Cullum's Story

Ms. Cullum has been serving as a Foster Grandparent for more than seven years and is admired by everyone she works with. During the school year, she volunteers 15-20 hours a week as a reading buddy to about three dozen students in four different elementary schools in West Dallas.

Ms. Cullum’s influence has dramatically enhanced the literacy of almost every student she has been paired with. These results are proven and measurable. The love, patience, encouragement, and attention she provides makes each student feel special and unique. Ms. Cullum is more than just a reading buddy, she is a mentor, friend, and role model.

Volunteer applicants must qualify for the program.

All applicants undergo a thorough screening and background check process. Once accepted into the program, Foster Grandparent volunteers receive 20 hours of pre-service training and then, ongoing monthly training.

Volunteers receive a stipend of $3.00 per hour to offset the cost of volunteering as well as reimbursement for transportation, some meals during service, and supplemental insurance while on duty.

YOU MUST:

  • Be at least 55 years of age
  • Meet certain income eligibility requirements
  • Love children
  • Be able to volunteer 15-40 hours a week
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