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Foster Grandparent Program
What is the
Foster Grandparent Program?
The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) encourages seniors to become active in the community by going into the public schools to assist students who need extra help. Volunteers will assist teachers by tutoring and mentoring students from disadvantaged backgrounds that often lack general vocabulary. Students that receive one-on-one assistance from volunteers develop reading and comprehension skills.
Since 1965, the Foster Grandparent Program has provided one-on-one mentoring, nurturing, and support to children with special or exceptional needs, or who are in academic, social, or financial disadvantage. Foster Grandparents serve from 15 to 40 hours a week and receive hourly stipends. Foster Grandparents must be age 55 or older and meet established income eligibility guidelines. The anticipated outcomes for volunteers are to keep seniors active in their community.
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In addition to the stipend, they receive accident, personal liability, and excess automobile insurance; assistance with the cost of transportation; an annual physical examination; recognition; and, as feasible, meals during their assignments.
Volunteer Testimonials
"My year as a volunteer was very gratifying. I really think the children embrace me with their love, and really felt energized by their hugs and love. It really helped me and I tried to help them."
-FGP Volunteer, Mary Sanchez
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"I had an exceptional good year. I worked with four children, all were in special education. The first two I worked with in spelling. They learn the spelling list quickly. I think it was the one on one personal touch that did the trick. One learned to read and learned his multiplication tables."
-FGP Volunteer, Joyce Cox
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"My 10th year as a volunteer. Having completed foster grandparent I would say it was my best year! Each child is so special! My teacher and I could visit so easily! I enjoy watching them grow and develop! It was fulfilling to be apart of their lives and world! They Love Me too!
-FGP Volunteer, Kenna Jones
Volunteer Requirements
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Must be 55 years of age or older
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Eligibility to be an FGP volunteer may not be restricted on the basis of formal education, experience, race; color; national origin; gender; sexual orientation; religion; age; disability; political affiliation; marital or parental status; or military service
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Must meet income eligibility guideline is 200% of the poverty line
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To be enrolled and receive a stipend, a Foster Grandparent cannot have an annual income, from all sources, deducting allowable medical expenses, that exceeds the income eligibility guideline for the state in which he or she resides
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Be willing to serve a minimum of 15 hours per week
Volunteer Stipend
For each hour served, FGP volunteers earn a $3.00 tax-free stipend. For volunteers, stipends do not count against the income or taxes filed.
Volunteer Stations
The Community Services Center Foster Grandparent Program continues to have a great working partnership/collaboration with:
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Portales Public Schools
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ENMU Child Development Center
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Portales Early Head Start
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Head Start programs
Still interested but
do not meet requirements?
Do not meet the requirements to be a FGP volunteer? No worries, other volunteer opportunities are available.
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Check out our volunteer opportunities:
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Want more information?
Click the link below to visit the Federal website:
Corporation for National and Community Service
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Contact us
If you need more information, don't hesitate to give us a call. A staff member would be happy to visit with you.
Foster Grandparent Program
Program Director: Kendra Williams
Phone: 575-356-8576 ext. 36
Email: fgprsvp@yucca.net
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