Foster Grandparent Program

Foster Grandparent Volunteers Needed

Raul arrived in the United States without speaking one word of English. By the end of the school year, he was fluent - and ready to succeed in school.

Lucy was on the retention list but is now going on to second grade.

Challenged students in a third grade classroom have all passed their FCAT Reading and Math tests.

These miracles, and many more like them, have taken place because of Foster Grandparents who spent hours and hours with each child. These are volunteers who refused to let a child "fall through the cracks." Instead, they committed themselves to working patiently one-on-one with each child. Over time, their constant encouragement, support and assistance helped the children reach levels of accomplishment previously thought beyond their grasp. "Foster Grandparents are amazing," said a kindergarten teacher. "They have a direct impact on every child they work with. They provide comfort and reassurance to children who are struggling."

"These children would fall further and further behind their classmates without the individual tutoring and mentoring they receive from their Foster Grandparent," said a second grade classroom teacher.

"What a blessing these volunteers are," said the manager of a not-for-profit day care center. "Their service is vital to ensure at-risk children receive the individualized attention they require to succeed."

In addition to providing much-needed help for the children, the Foster Grandparent Program benefits the volunteers who serve. All program volunteers are aged 60 or older. They generally serve 4 hours per day, 5 days a week in public school classrooms, pre-school settings and after-school programs.

Volunteer service means a great deal to Foster Grandparents. They frequently say things such as, "It gives me a reason to get up in the morning" or "I know my children need me."

In addition to knowing they are making an important difference in young lives, Foster Grandparents who are income qualified earn a tax-free stipend for their service, as well as travel reimbursement and other benefits.

Foster Grandparents are needed now to serve in Pinellas County. What a difference you can make by volunteering to become a Foster Grandparent. Call (813) 932-5228 for more information.