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CONTACT: Stephanie Marquis, 608-266-1683
IMPACT THE LIFE OF A CHILD: BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT
MADISON - Winnebago Mental Health Institute is looking for
volunteers, age 60 and older to become a positive influence in the lives
of children and youth in their community through the Foster Grandparent
Program. Volunteers serve children in the greater Oshkosh area and focus
on tutoring and mentoring children and adolescents to help them succeed in
life and overcome challenges they may face.
“Dedicated seniors have made a difference in the life of a child by
serving as a mentor, tutor or caregiver to children and youth with special
needs,” said Winnebago Director Robert Kneepkens. “Foster grandparents
strengthen communities by building bridges across generations.”
Winnebago Mental Health Institute encourages seniors to apply for the
program if they are:
- 60 years of age or older
- Physically able and in good health
- Able to volunteer 15-40 hours each week
- Able to work with children who have educational or emotional needs
- Meet income eligibility and pass a background check
- Willing to accept supervision and direction
Funding for the foster grandparent program is provided by Senior Corps,
a federal program of the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Senior Corps reports that youth who have established relationships with a
foster grandparent show improvement in their academic performance,
self-image, school attendance and are less likely to engage in risky
behaviors or get into trouble. The grandparents participating also enjoy
the program.
“This is the best intergenerational program there is – it promotes
better understanding to both the young and the old. I play games with the
children, which is a great teaching tool. When we play word games, they
increase their vocabulary and use of the dictionary. When we play
cribbage, we practice math skills. I also teach them how to use strategy
in various other games and to always play fair. Should they want to talk,
I am a good listener. I love the children and what I do,” says Grandma
Joanne, a Foster Grandparent at Winnebago.
Foster grandparents can serve in Oshkosh elementary and middle schools,
UW-Oshkosh’s Head Start program, Boys and Girls Club of Oshkosh,
Waterwood School and youth units at Winnebago Mental Health Institute.
On-going training is provided to help volunteers develop the skills needed
to serve children with special needs. Foster grandparents receive
reimbursement for transportation, a modest tax-free stipend, meals during
service, annual physical examinations, and accident and liability
insurance while on duty.
If you would like more information on Winnebago’s Foster Grandparent
Program, please call Marilyn Clarenbach at 920-235-4910, ext. 2483. For
more information on the statewide Foster Grandparent Program, please visit
http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/aging/voluntr/GRANDPNT.HTM
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Last Revised: July 15, 2009 |
