Services

Foster Grandparent Program

As an older adult, you may be looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

Or, maybe you want to meet new people that share your interests. Or, maybe you could use a little extra income.

With CEO’s Foster Grandparent Program, you can do all of these things and more. The program has been in operation at CEO since 1976 and now serves hundreds of children each year in the counties of Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady. The program allows you to earn a tax-free stipend for volunteering anywhere from 15 to 40 hours a week, helping children to learn and grow through fun and educational activities.

Participants are placed on assignment at various volunteer stations that are close to their homes. You may be volunteering with children in:

Not only does the program offer the chance to make a difference in children’s lives – you can also meet new and interesting people. Foster Grandparent Volunteers often travel together on field trips, celebrate events with one another, and attend regular training and group learning sessions, creating a strong community.

Americorps Seniors CEO logo

CEO’s Foster Grandparent Program is Senior Corps program. Senior Corps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the federal agency for volunteering, service, and civic engagement. CNCS engages millions of Americans in citizen service through its AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs and leads the nation’s volunteer and service efforts. For more information, visit americorps.gov.

- Colleen Melia

“Mentoring gives purpose to my life in a program that I am passionate about. Interacting with young children puts a smile on my face many times a day. I get to work with a team who are like-minded in bringing happiness to our ‘little people’.”

- Mary Turner

“I am so happy when I help a pre-K student learn how to write, especially when they learn how to write their first & last name.”

- Pauline Williams

“Building a close relationship with the children & showing them my trust.”

- Shon Cooper

“Mentoring makes me happy when the children realize that they can accomplish something and smile.”

Program

Video

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Useful

Resources

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Eligibility

Guidelines

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Foster Grandparent Volunteers must be:

  • 55 years of age or older
  • Willing and able to volunteer a minimum of 15 hours per week
  • Cleared by a physician (annual physical)
  • TB test every 2 years
  • Income eligible (View Guidelines)
    Current income guidelines are set by The Corporation for National & Community Service. This information will be found at the very bottom of the page.

If your income is over the income guidelines, you may still participate as a volunteer.

Eligibility Guidelines

Apply

Online

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Download the application and fill out the form to get started.

Download Application (PDF)

Next, send your completed form:

Email

ceofgp@ceoempowers.org

Mail

Commission on Economic Opportunity
Foster Grandparent Program
2331 5th Avenue
Troy, NY 12180

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Contact Us

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Partnership Opportunities

Aimee Salecker
Foster Grandparent Program Manager
Call: (518) 272-6012, ext. 288
Email: asalecker@ceoempowers.org
Fax: 518-205-7624

Application Assistance

CEO’s staff is available to help with the application process, finding a volunteer station, and support you throughout your service. For more information please contact the Foster Grandparent Program.

Call: (518) 272-6012, ext. 315

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