FAMILY STRENGTHENING

There’s an old adage, it’s better to give than to receive. But the Foster Grandparent Program volunteers get the joy of experiencing both. A little over 100 adults ages 55+ who meet federal low-income guidelines volunteer approximately 6,000 hours a month. They help at-risk or special needs children in Wyandotte County from infancy through high school. They tutor one-on-one, assisting with reading, language development and math.

The volunteers, who are given a small stipend, receive ongoing training and support through monthly in-services. They come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wide range of life and work experiences to their volunteer assignments. They build positive relationships that truly make a difference inside and outside the classroom. Program volunteers must agree to an annual health physical and undergo several forms of criminal background checks.

Sponsored by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, the Foster Grandparent Program is one of about 350 programs across the country, all funded through the Corporation for National and Community Service.