Transparency 
Foster Grandparent/Senior Companion Program
Mission Statement – To improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.
About AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors – AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans to serve their county, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. AmeriCorps Seniors engages volunteers, age 55 and older, to serve in their community through the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs.
The Foster Grandparent Program
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is an AmeriCorps Seniors grantee and receives funds through their Foster Grandparent Program. DDS operates the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs in 21 counties throughout California.
The Foster Grandparent Program has made a remarkable impact since its inception in 1965, starting with 800 volunteers across 45 institutions. Today, it has grown significantly, with nearly 30,000 volunteers supporting over 280,000 children nationwide through CNCS-affiliated organizations.
Foster Grandparent volunteers give one-on-one attention to children who may be having difficulty in a classroom setting. Foster Grandparents help guide students to learn life skills and gain higher academic achievement by serving as positive role models, mentors, and friends.
Volunteers receive the following benefits:
- Tax-free Monthly Stipend (does not affect rent, social security or other benefits)
- Meal and Transportation Reimbursement
- Paid Holidays and Annual Leave
- Orientation and Monthly Trainings
- Field Trips and Recognition Events
- Opportunities to meet people and socialize
- Keep your mind and body healthy and active
Qualifications:
- Individuals interested in serving children with disabilities
- Individuals 55 years of age or older
- Individuals who meet limited-income requirements
- Individuals able to volunteer 15 hours per week
Full Disclaimer: This material is based upon work supported by AmeriCorps. Opinions or points of view expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of, or a position that is endorsed by, AmeriCorps. Note: Grant number is not legally required.
The Senior Companion Program
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is an AmeriCorps Seniors grantee and receives funds through their Senior Companion Program. DDS operates the Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs in 21 counties throughout California.
The Senior Companion Program, established in 1974, has been instrumental in providing essential assistance to older adults across communities nationwide. Senior Companions play a vital role in supporting older adults, and the volunteers at SGPRC continue this legacy by serving over 50 adults with special needs daily.
Senior Companion volunteers give one-on-one attention to adults having difficulty with daily living tasks. Senior Companions provided the assistance many older adults and people with disabilities may need and make the lives of those they serve less lonely by offering simple friendship and a helping hand.
Volunteers receive the following benefits:
- Tax-free Monthly Stipend (does not affect rent, social security or other benefits)
- Meal and Transportation Reimbursement
- Paid Holidays and Annual Leave
- Orientation and Monthly Trainings
- Field Trips and Recognition Events
- Opportunities to meet people and socialize
- Keep your mind and body healthy and active
Qualifications:
- Individuals able to volunteer 15 hours per week
- Individuals interested in serving adults with disabilities
- Individuals 55 years of age or older
- Individuals who meet limited-income requirements
- Individuals able to volunteer 15 hours per week
Full Disclaimer: This material is based upon work supported by AmeriCorps. Opinions or points of view expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of, or a position that is endorsed by, AmeriCorps. Note: Grant number is not legally required.