The Foster Grandparent Program, operating under the umbrella of Central Missouri Community Action, is in need of seniors age 55 and older to serve as mentors and tutors for at-risk children and youth.
According to a press release, Foster Grandparent mentors receive a tax-free stipend to work with children in non-profit settings such as schools, Head Start and daycare programs. Transportation costs are also reimbursed.
The release stated that benefits also include personal benefits such as improving volunteers' mental and physical well being, noting senior volunteers report lower rates of depression and a more active lifestyle.
"Our mentors tell us that the feeling of giving back and making a difference is what makes the program so meaningful," program Director Julie McNeill said in the release.
Anyone age 55 or older interested in joining the Foster Grandparent Program should call (573) 443-8706 ext. 1131 or ext. 1129 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays.