Frequently asked questions by potential volunteer Volunteers

 

What are the qualifications to become a Foster Grandparent?
It's simple. To qualify, you must be at least 55 years old, live on a limited income and be able to serve a minimum of 15 hours per week. Eligibility to be a Foster Grandparent shall not be restricted on the basis of formal education, experience, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, handicap, or political affiliation.

How do Foster Grandparents benefit?
Foster Grandparents receive a non-taxable stipend and are reimbursed any out of pocket travel expenses. The stipend does not affect social security or pension benefits, subsidized housing rates, OAP, Medicare, Medicaid or food stamps. In addition, you'll enjoy paid PTO time and holidays, in addition to annual recognition. Foster Grandparent's cost reimbursements are not subject to any tax or charge or treated as wages or compensation for the purposes of unemployment insurance, worker's compensation, temporary disability, retirement, public assistance, or similar benefit payments or minimum wage laws. Cost reimbursements are not subject to garnishment, and do not reduce or eliminate the level of, or eligibility for, assistance or services a Foster Grandparent may be receiving under any governmental program.

Do Foster Grandparents take children in their home?
No. You will help children at a Volunteer Station such as a Head Start classroom, child care center, school, hospital or shelter.

What do the Foster Grandparents do with the children?
Foster Grandparents tutor, mentor, and comfort children. They help children develop basic learning skills, share life experiences, spend one-on-one attention in areas of reading, writing and math to prepare the children for independent living and provide children with emotional support and empathy.

Where do Foster Grandparents work?
We have over 130 Volunteer Stations throughout the Southwestern Region of Pennsylvania: Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, and Washington Counties. We match a Volunteer to a site that is close to their home. Most of our Foster Grandparents travel less than 2 miles to work.

How old are the children that I'll be working with?
The Foster Grandparent Program can help children from the ages of 0 to 21 years old. The average age of children in our area is 3-5 years old.

When would I volunteer?
Schedules depend on the Volunteer Station and the Volunteer. Our program is flexible and tries to accommodate the schedules that are best for all involved. Most Foster Grandparent work in the morning and volunteer 5 hours a week for 4 days. All Foster Grandparents Volunteers volunteer a minimum of 15 hours per week.

How do I become a Foster Grandparent?
Simply contact us by phone (412) 263-3165 and we'll get you on your way.