Grandview Elementary welcomed two new Foster Grandparents as #PartOfThePride on September 18. Paul and Adele Wilkins will volunteer in classrooms to provide academic, social, and developmental support to students.
In addition to serving as positive role models for students, foster grandparents read with students, help with classroom assignments, play games, work on crafts, and encourage students throughout the school day.
The Foster Grandparent Program is facilitated by the Butler County Department of Aging and is an AmeriCorps Senior volunteer program. It is funded by a federal grant and matching funds from the Butler County Department of Aging.
“Currently funded for 42 positions, we strive to provide rewarding volunteer opportunities for our Foster Grandparent Volunteers that make a measurable difference with the students and children they serve,” Melody Gault, Program Manager said.
Foster Grandparents must complete an interview process, provide references, pass a sex-offender registry check, state and federal fingerprinting, and maintain good performance reviews to participate in the program. They must also attend an orientation and inservice meetings and training with the Butler County Department of Aging. Training topics include confidentiality, school culture, communication, and tips for serving as a Foster Grandparent.
For more information about the Foster Grandparent Program, please contact Melody Gault, Program Manager, at deptonaging-volunteers@bucoks.com or by phone at 316-775-0500.