Our Mission
The Foster Grandparent Program of Southwest Florida provides meaningful and challenging volunteer opportunities and community involvement for more than 150 Foster Grandparents to serve special needs and at risk children by giving more than 110,000 hours of annual volunteer services.
Our Sponsor
Nationally, the Foster Grandparent Program started 45 years ago, while the Foster Grandparent Program of Southwest Florida under the sponsorship of the Dr. Piper Center for Social Services (DPCSS), Inc. started in 1993. DPCSS is a private, not-for-profit 501 C(3) tax exempt, charitable organization. The Foster Grandparent Program is administered through the Corporation for National & Community Service.
T
he Bonding of Young & Old
The Foster Grandparent Program provides a unique service built on the natural bond between young and old. Many of these children are victims of abuse, neglect, chemical dependency, illiteracy, disability, etc. Many older Americans need to share their love, wisdom and experience. The program is the bridge that connects these generations.
A Few Facts
Since 1993, the Foster Grandparent Program has enabled more than 2,000 senior citizens to volunteer approximately 1.5 million hours assisting children with special needs in Collier, Lee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto and Sarasota Counties.
Benefits
Serving 20 hours per week, Foster Grandparent Volunteers receive a modest, tax-free stipends, transportation allowance, hot meals ( where available), accident and liability insurance and an annual physical exam.
Emotional Benefits
The grandparents bring an openness and sensitivity to the challenges of helping troubled children. The Foster Grandparent Program Volunteers enrich the lives of the children they serve, while profoundly enriching their own. They restore and reinforce a sense of community and family values with the children.
Making a Difference & Changing Lives!
For more information about the Dr. Piper Center programs and services, please call (239) 332-5346.
