If you've got a little spare time and patience, and could use a little spare money, the Central Missouri Community Action Foster Grandparent Program wants you.
"Right now, we're kind of low on volunteers in Callaway County and really hoping to recruit more," said Julie McNeill, who coordinates the program.
McNeill spoke at the Thursday Community Resource Network meeting about the program. Foster grandparents, age 55 and older, spend 15-40 hours a week working with a child or children in a local school, day care or Head Start location. In return, if income-eligible, they receive a tax-exempt stipend of $2.65 per hour, plus several other benefits.
"The stipend isn't considered a wage, so it won't affect your benefits if you receive SNAP or subsidized housing (etc.)," McNeill said. "We're targeting those folks that normally wouldn't be out there volunteering because they can't afford the transportation or the right clothes."
The Foster Grandparent Program was funded via grants at the national level by the Corporation for National Community Service's Senior Corps in 1965. CMCA has been running it in Callaway County for 51 years, since 1968.
"A lot has changed since 1968, but the purpose of this program hasn't changed," McNeill said. "This program is a huge win-win for everyone. The volunteers get so much out of it, including a feeling of accomplishment, and the kids get a loving grandparent figure."
In the 10-county area served by CMCA, Foster Grandparent volunteers visit 11 school districts and eight Head Start facilities.
Student participants range from toddlers to junior high schoolers, though they can stay in the program into high school. After prospective foster grandparents complete their application and pass background checks, teachers help match them to a student who needs them the most.
Under the direction of teachers, they spend time with those students working on vital skills: math and literacy with older children, motor skills with the younger children and so on. They read together and play games. They also provide a friendly listening ear.
Other volunteer benefits include:
Transportation or mileage reimbursement
One hot meal per day at most locations
Accident and liability insurance
Paid time off and 12 paid holidays per year
Training
An annual physical examination
To qualify, volunteers must be at least 55 years old, retired, able and willing to serve children on a personal and regular basis, physically able (as determined by an annual physical), willing to work at least 15 hours per week and willing to accept supervision as needed. They must also pass a background check.
Anyone who's interested in joining the program can reach McNeill at 573-443-8706 ext. 1131. Visit showmeaction.org/services/foster-grandparents to learn more.