How it works
Volunteers aged 55 and older with limited incomes can sign up for 20-40 hours per week to build one-on-one relationships with local students who have exceptional needs. Foster grandparents receive a tax-free stipend and transportation reimbursement, among other benefits, said Jennifer Ruffcorn, Texas Health and Human Services Commission spokesperson.
“They also get social engagement, increased physical activity, renewed purpose and connection to the community,” she said.
Measuring the impact
Funded by AmeriCorps, foster grandparents help students by reading stories, assisting with class projects, and serving as mentors.
Ruffcorn said this has led to significant improvements in student performance.
“Throughout the 2023-24 year, teachers reported 98% of students assigned a volunteer showed academic improvements and/or experienced social-emotional gains,” she said.
Get involved
Volunteers must undergo an application and interview process, including a three-part background check and 20 hours of pre-service training.
Those interested in becoming a foster grandparent, or teachers who would like to request one for their classroom, can reach out to Diane Rouda, Austin-area volunteer services coordinator, by email at [email protected], or by phone at 512-529-1415.
Notable quote
“[The program is for] children who now have a role model and resource from a different generation, families who appreciate the support from a ‘grandparent’ volunteer, and more specifically, the volunteers who spend part of their day in the classroom engaged, active and making a difference,” Rouda said. “The impact they have on these children spans generations and can last a lifetime.”
