Foster Grandparent Program

Cleo has been a Foster Grandparent volunteer for five years. She serves at the Boys & Girls Club in Garden City, working with hundreds of kids each week in their after-school programs.

“Mostly, I’m there when they need someone to talk to, I’m there for that. Some are raised in complicated, broken environments. Raised by grandparents, aunts and uncles. We have some with parents in prison. They just need someone there that they can talk to. Someone who is not going to go away, who can give them some security. Someone to talk to. Or read a book. Or help them with their homework.”

For over fifty years, Foster Grandparent volunteers like Cleo have filled a vital role in schools and after-school programs. Each volunteer serves 15-40 hours per week, helping students with classwork, providing encouragement, sharing stories, and building relationships that motivate an inspire children to keep coming to class, to keep trying, even when they face challenges.

Foster Grandparent volunteers live on a limited income, and receive a small, non-taxable stipend for the time they spend serving. Donations are needed to help provide lunches for volunteers at their service sites. These meals provide a source for a reliable, nutritious meal that volunteers can count on each day as they give their time and hearts to the kids around them.

Please consider giving to the Foster Grandparent Program. Your support changes the lives of hundreds of children across the Treasure Valley!