What we do
Volunteers ages 55+ who mentor children, youth, and young adults on a one-on-one basis and in group settings to promote academic success.
Eligibility
Read about the Foster Grandparent Program eligibility requirements.
Enrollment
Fill out our form and get started on your way to becoming a Foster Grandparent.
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About Foster Grandparent Program Services
What We Do
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“Foster Grandparents share today to shape tomorrow” —(CNCS website)
The Foster Grandparent Program bridges generations as senior volunteers provide one-to-one mentoring and emotional support to underserved infants, children, and teens throughout Fresno and Madera Counties, promoting literacy and academic success as well as fostering social-emotional and cognitive-behavioral development.
Foster Grandparent Program volunteers – referred to affectionately as Grandma or Grandpa – are matched with a young person that will most benefit from heartfelt attention or from guidance by way of an elder’s precious pearl of life wisdom.
The Foster Grandparent Program also promotes quality of life for seniors. A Foster Grandparent extends love and wisdom and devotes time and attention to mentor and nurture a young person who otherwise might not receive heartfelt sharing and caring. In exchange, the Foster Grandparent is afforded a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in the life of another which in turn contributes toward an enhanced sense of purpose and self-worth.
Storytime Online
Keep an eye out for more Storytime videos right here!


Storytime Online
Keep an eye out for more Storytime videos right here!
Eligibility
The Foster Grandparent Program eligibility requirements are as follows:
- Age 55+
- Income meets program guidelines
- Background clearance
- Physical health status
- Enthusiasm
- Compassion
- Positive outlook on life
The Foster Grandparent Program Volunteer benefits include:
- Tax-exempt stipend
- Transportation allowance
- Personal fulfillment
- Lots of love
How can I become a Foster Grandparent?
The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) application and enrollment process is federally regulated and entails the following four steps:
- Step 1. A pre-screening interview is conducted to confirm eligibility and answers any questions that a potential Grandparent volunteer may have.
- Step 2. The prospective Grandparent volunteer attends a group informational meeting and completes the Foster Grandparent Program Application and Volunteer Questionnaire. Required compliance documents are collected: a valid California ID, proof of auto insurance may be requested. One-to-one interviews are conducted to discuss the Volunteer Questionnaire responses.
- Step 3. The prospective Grandparent volunteer undergoes a physical screening by their health care provider and thereafter a physical status report is provided to verify that the applicant is cleared to volunteer with youth.
- Step 4. A background check is initiated and once the Foster Grandparent Program receives notification of an individual’s clearance, a 3-day orientation is scheduled in addition to the 20 hours of field training at a volunteer site.
Enroll Now
Fill out the interest form and we will contact you with the next steps.
Community Services - Foster Grandparent Enrollment Form
Location
1805 California Ave.
Fresno, CA 93706
8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Phone (559) 263-8910
Volunteer locations are throughout Fresno County.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the program's mission?
Is the program successful?
What ages and who does the program serve?
Where do the Grandparent mentors meet with their mentees?
Can non-seniors also volunteer?
The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is a formally structured Senior Volunteer mentor program. However, community volunteers are welcome to assist with recognition events, special projects, in-service training presentations, community awareness activities, and resource development along with membership in the FGP Community Advisory Group. A potential community volunteer may contact the Foster Grandparent Program office at (559) 263-1533 for additional information or complete our Volunteer Interest Form.
What kinds of donations do you accept?
The Foster Grandparent Program actively collaborates with like-hearted community partners and philanthropic individuals for program support in the form of grants, sponsorships, monetary donations, pro-bono professional services and in-kind contributions. Please contact the Foster Grandparent Program at (559) 263-1533 for specifics.