Foster Grandparent Program
For more than 40 years, the Foster Grandparent Program has connected adults age 55 and older with opportunities to support children with exceptional needs in the Jacksonville community.
Foster Grandparents share their time, experience, and compassion by serving as mentors, tutors, and supportive role models for children in schools, Head Start programs, day care centers, and other community settings.
Who Can Volunteer?
You may be eligible to become a Foster Grandparent if you:
- Are age 55 or older;
- Have time to volunteer;
- Want to share your experience and compassion with children;
- Are in good physical and mental health.
What Foster Grandparents Do
Foster Grandparents serve children who are physically and intellectually disabled, visual or hearing impaired, and emotionally or physically abused. They assist in the development of children's motor and learning skills, serve as mentors and tutors, and help to restore and reinforce a sense of community and family values.
Where Foster Grandparents Serve
Foster Grandparents are assigned to:
- Head Start programs
- Day care centers
- Public and private schools
Benefits
Foster Grandparents receive the following benefits:
- Tax-free hourly stipend
- Transportation reimbursement
- Lunch allowance
- Annual physical exam
- Special training
- Recognition events
- Opportunities to socialize
Transportation
Foster Grandparent volunteers are reimbursed for personal travel to and from work assignments and monthly in-service trainings.
Sign Up to Volunteer
If you are interested in becoming a Foster Grandparent, please complete the form below. A member of the program team will follow up with more information.
Advisory Council
The Advisory Council makes recommendations and supports special activities such as the Annual Foster Grandparent Recognition Luncheon.
Contact Information
Deborah Bell
Program Manager
Office: (904) 255-6660
Fax: (904) 630-0635
The Foster Grandparent Program is sponsored and funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service with matching funds from the City of Jacksonville - Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, Senior Services Division and a Community Development Block Grant.