Foster Grandparents Program
The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), which began in 1965, provides loving and experienced tutors and mentors to children and youth with special needs. Working one on one and serving between 15 and 40 hours a week, Foster Grandparents provide support in schools, hospitals, and child care centers. Among other activities, they review schoolwork, reinforce values, and care for premature infants and children with disabilities. Foster Grandparents often maintain an ongoing, intensive relationship with the children and youth served for a year or longer.
Eligibility
Volunteers must be 60 years of age or over. Those who meet certain income guidelines receive a small stipend. FGP volunteers receive accident and liability insurance and meals while on duty, reimbursement for transportation, and monthly training.
National 2008 FGP Statistics:
• Volunteers- 29,971
• Hours Served - 25.2 million
• Young People Served- 284,000
• Children of Prisoners Served- 5,703
• Number of Projects- 331
• Annual Federal Funding- $109 million
• Non-Federal Support- $42.5 million
Athens Area 2008 Statistics:
• Volunteers– 43
• Hours Served- 38,844
• Clients Served– 112
• Counties- Clarke, Oconee, Barrow, Greene, Madison, Elbert
• Number of Stations– 20
• FY 2008 Stipends Paid to FG Volunteers- $112,038.41