Name of program: Foster Grandparent Program (FGP)

What is the program’s goal? Foster Grandparents extend love and wisdom and dedicate time and attention to mentor and nurture an infant, child or teenager who otherwise might not receive heartfelt sharing and caring. The lives of countless youngsters have been enriched beyond measure as these esteemed elders share pearls of wisdom to foster character development, cultivate life skillfulness, promote educational growth, hearten a sense of hope and encourage overall well being within in the spirit of a child. Also, the Foster Grandparent Program continues to foster partnerships with local organizations and institutions, which reflect a mutually beneficial exchange.

When was the program established at EOC? 1994. The Foster Grandparent Program has been operating in Fresno County for close to 37 years total and nationally, for 43 years.

Who do you help (client base)? FGP is a senior program with an intergenerational focus. FGP serves seniors, who in turn, nurture infants and mentor children and teenagers.

What are the eligibility requirements? Foster Grandparents must be 60+ years of age, able to volunteer an average of 20 hours per week, meet an income requirement, and most importantly… love children.

How many clients do you serve monthly/annually? In 2007, 80+ FGP volunteers served over 5,000 youngsters.

Who is the current program manager? The Foster Grandparent Program is co-managed by Vicki Lopes and Kathlene Brookshire.

How many employees work for this program? Two

Where is your office / are your offices located?
1) The FGP Administrative office is located at: 1900 Mariposa Mall, Suite 116 in Fresno

2) The Grandparents’ spirit of sharing and caring benefits the infants and youngsters they mentor at elementary and middle schools, Boys & Girls Clubs, EOC Head Start centers, FIRM Child Development Center, Children’s Hospital Central California, homeless and domestic abuse shelters, and Fresno County Juvenile Hall.

Tell us about one of your “success stories”
The following was written by John R. Carrillo, Teacher at Burroughs Elementary School in Fresno, CA

To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing this letter in regards and appreciation of the Grandparent Program that serves at our school. I am one of the fortunate ones to have a grandma in my classroom. The children enjoy and look forward to have grandma come to class everyday.

Our grandma, Grandma Rose, has done a wonderful job in the classroom. She has helped me a lot and made a remarkable difference in the progress of the students, especially with a little boy from Mexico named Carlos.

Carlos only spoke and understood Spanish. He was also very shy, quiet and moody. Even with these traits, Grandma Rose was able to teach him the alphabet and to read and write in English. He has also built up a good vocabulary. Now he feels equal to the rest of the students and his self-esteem has grown enormously.

Because of Grandma Rose and the Grandparent Program, little Carlos has attained his basic English skills for his future education.

Thank you,
John R. Carrillo, Teacher

Anything else you’d like to tell us about your program? These exceptional seniors certainly personify the spirit of kindness, humanity and compassionate service. In return, the privilege of volunteer service and the experience of nurturing relationships with disadvantaged children benefits the grandparents by affording a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and thus fosters an enhanced sense of self worth and personal fulfillment.