East Bay Foster Grandparent Program

The AmeriCorps Seniors East Bay Foster Grandparent Program offers a way for individuals ages 55 and older to stay active by serving children and youth in their communities while providing a unique service built on the natural bond between generations. The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is the bridge that connects these generations. Foster Grandparents volunteers share their experience and skills to improve the lives of children in their communities. The mission of FGP is to support positive outcomes for children and provide rewarding opportunities to income-eligible individuals ages 55 and older. The Foster Grandparent Program is a mentorship program, not part of the foster care system.

People We Serve

Foster Grandparents serve as role models, tutors, and friends to children needing additional support. FGP works with various non-profit community partners, including schools, libraries, faith-based organizations, and before and after school programs.

Key Features

Foster Grandparents are provided the opportunity to:

• Help children increase academic skills and provide social and emotional support
• Provide one-on-one and small group tutoring
• Earn a tax-free stipend of $240-$640 monthly for the time devoted to the program 
• Enjoy social interactions with others

Location(s) of the Program

Hours of Operation

Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

How to Enroll

Call the Office of Volunteer Services at 401-435-7876, Ext. 1137, to make an appointment and learn more about the program.

How You Can Volunteer

Foster Grandparents help children develop skills and confidence and provide them with much-needed attention that can change their lives. Foster Grandparents strengthen their neighborhoods by assisting children in need at schools, Head Start sites, Boys and Girls Clubs, libraries, and other non-profit organizations. You must be 55 years or older and meet specific income-eligibility requirements. For more information, please call the Office of Volunteer Services at 401-435-7876, Ext. 1137.

Watch a news clip from CBS This Morning on a Foster Grandparent Program in Washington, D.C.

Here’s what our community is saying about our Foster Grandparents

“As a result of having Sienna in the classroom, students have increased math scores and sight word vocabulary. This is due to Sienna working one-on-one with those students who struggle during whole-group instruction.”

“Carmela is a wonderful and helpful FGP volunteer. She assists with small groups and works 1:1 with students.”

“Students have definitely increased their knowledge in all subject areas thanks to having Sue in the classroom. Thank you for making this program possible. Sue has been such a positive asset to my classroom! She works extremely hard all day and every day that she’s here.”

“Ms. Beth offers additional support for the students in reading and writing. She monitors students in small groups in reading fluency.”

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