by Gina Mazza
In an era where children need more support than ever, the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program, a federally funded program locally sponsored by Wesley Family Services, is making a difference by connecting local older adults with young learners. This unique program not only fosters educational growth in children but also enriches the lives of senior volunteers, creating a meaningful bond between generations.
This stipend-based volunteer initiative is designed for limited-income individuals ages 55 and older. It provides an opportunity for them to serve as classroom grandparents, offering mentorship, guidance, and positive role modeling to children in need. Through partnerships with public and private schools, Head Starts, daycares, child development centers, and after-school programs, volunteers help children in need to develop essential skills in literacy, language, math, and cognitive growth. Beyond academics, these dedicated mentors play a crucial role in fostering social and emotional intelligence in young minds.
The Foster Grandparent Program offers an invaluable opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community’s youth. By volunteering, you can help build the foundational skills that children need for success in education and life. In turn, volunteers report that they gain a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and connection, proving that service is a two-way street that benefits both the giver and the recipient. In an AmeriCorps Seniors survey, 76 percent of volunteers felt better, 96 percent felt a sense of purpose in life, and 95 percent felt they had helped the community become a better place.
“Volunteering with children brings a smile to my face and I can’t wait to get to my classroom every day,” comments Jeannie George of Beaver County. “The program has filled my time with a positive activity for myself, as well as giving me the opportunity to help the children and their teacher. This experience has exceeded my expectations and look forward to volunteering for many years to come.”
Become a Volunteer
The program is currently seeking both volunteers and child-serving nonprofit organizations to participate within a six-county region, including Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, and Washington counties. Eligible volunteers must be at least 55 years old and willing to dedicate between 15 to 40 hours per week. Background checks are required, and individuals must meet income eligibility guidelines to qualify. To learn more about becoming a host or volunteering with the Foster Grandparent Program, call (412) 660-6841 or (412) 660-7303, or visit fostergrandparents.wfspa.org.
The Foster Grandparent Program is more than just a volunteer opportunity—it’s a chance to shape the future by investing in young lives. If you’re looking for a way to give back and leave a lasting impact for generations to come, this program is the perfect place to start.
“I love what I do as a FGP volunteer,” Jeannie shares. “Next to my grandchildren, these kids are the joy of my life.
Wesley Family Services is located at 211 Penn Avenue in Wilkinsburg. For more information or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, call (412) 850-5535, email volunteer@wfspa.org or visit wfspa.org.