Careers

Location: Various
Publish Date: November 18, 2015
Department/Program: Foster Grandparent


Roles and responsibilities of a Foster Grandparent include: 

FGs have the responsibility of working on a daily basis, 15-40 hours a week. Volunteers are work with children with specific needs in a variety of settings; schools, day care centers, Head Start centers, and transitional/temporary shelters. Volunteers are encouraged to work closely with site staff through meetings, daily communication and direct supervision to better understand the assigned children to facilitate planning activities which will best help the child. The grandparent serves as an example/role model with whom the child can identify. The activities are carried out in a controlled, supervised setting. It should be emphasized that the volunteer does not replace the parent, teacher, counselor, therapist or any paid staff member. They provide the interested, warm, compassionate friend to whom the child may deal with during a particular period of his/her life.

Persons interested in being a Foster Grandparent must be at least 55 years of age and have an income less than 200% of the federal poverty guideline (income exceptions may be made on a non-stipend basis only). No prior experience with children is needed although it would be helpful.

The volunteer should have the ability to accept and relate to children who may not share the volunteer's lifestyle and values. The volunteer should also respect the child's right to self-determination and independence as an essential element in the relationship. The volunteer should exhibit a great deal of common sense, friendliness, maturity, sensitivity and a sense of responsibility which makes clear their ability to provide directly to the child of the type served. The volunteer must be willing to accept methodologies and directions from FGP staff and site placement staff.

BENEFITS

1. A non-taxable stipend for program related involvement.
2. Assistance with transportation or reimbursement for mileage expenses pertaining to program activities.
3. Annual physical.
4. A warm meal each day worked.
5. Supplemental accident insurance coverage while working.
6. Pre-service training and ongoing monthly training for the volunteer's growth and development.
7. Positive social interactions.
8. Stipend-paid, holiday and leave time.
9. Ongoing support and recognition via program newsletter, local and state media, staff working with them, an annual recognition banquet, and other means throughout the year.