The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program is a volunteer program for adults age 55 and older who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. At Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, we are proud to sponsor and partner with AmeriCorps Seniors in this program, which has served communities for more than 40 years.
Through this intergenerational program, older adults provide one-on-one mentoring, tutoring, and encouragement to children in school settings. Foster Grandparents help children build confidence, strengthen learning, and receive the caring attention they need to succeed.
Benefits for Seniors
2023 Mayo Clinic research shows that volunteering can improve physical and mental health, reduce depression and anxiety, lower stress, and increase purpose, connection, and self-esteem. For many older adults, giving time through service is also a meaningful way to stay engaged, build relationships, and support emotional well-being. In addition, qualifying Foster Grandparent volunteers may receive a modest non-taxable hourly stipend to help support their service.
Support for Children
In crowded classrooms, teachers are often unable to provide every child with the individual attention they need to succeed. The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program helps fill that gap by connecting caring, mature adults — often from the same neighborhood and from limited-income households — with children who need academic, social, or emotional support. Through one-on-one tutoring, mentoring, and encouragement, Foster Grandparents help children advance to the next grade level with their peers and give them the confidence to keep moving forward.
Who Can Serve
Adults that are 55 and older. No prior teaching experience is required, because volunteers receive hands-on training and ongoing support, along with activities that help them develop the skills needed to work with children effectively.
Join Us
If you want to stay active, feel connected, and make a lasting impact in a child’s life, we invite you to join the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program with Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans. Your experience can support your own well-being and become a gift to the next generation.
Call us today!
504-310-6882
[email protected]
