Seniors sought for Foster Grandparent Program

Multnomah County is seeking older adults to become Foster Grandparents, connecting seniors aged 55 and older with children and youth who have special or exceptional needs. The program, a part of AmeriCorps Seniors, aims to provide one-on-one mentorship, tutoring, and emotional support in local schools, community centers, and childcare facilities.

The Foster Grandparent Program offers a dual benefit: it keeps seniors active and engaged in their communities while providing crucial support to children. This support is designed to enhance the academic, social, and emotional development of young people and foster intergenerational connections.

To become a Foster Grandparent, individuals must be 55 years or older and reside in Clackamas, Multnomah, or Washington Counties. Applicants will undergo a National Service Criminal History Check, including fingerprinting and a review of the sex offender registry. A genuine interest in working with and supporting children is also a requirement.

Volunteers are expected to complete 20 hours of prerequisite training and commit to volunteering at least 5 hours per week. Monthly meetings are held on the first Friday of each month. Participants will receive an hourly non-taxable stipend through AmeriCorps Seniors, reimbursement for transportation, and meals during volunteer sessions or meal reimbursement. Ongoing monthly training and support are provided by program staff and fellow volunteers.

Interested individuals can apply online or call 503-988-5717 to request a paper application. The process includes meeting with program staff, completing an income verification form and background check, and undergoing fingerprinting. Program experts then match volunteers with suitable sites based on their interests and needs.

The AmeriCorps Senior FGP stipend is currently $4 per hour, including approved training time. Annual income for volunteers typically does not exceed 200% of the HHS Poverty guideline for Oregon. In 2026, this limit is $31,920 for a single individual and $43,280 for a two-person household. These stipends and reimbursements are non-taxable and do not affect eligibility for benefits like SNAP or rental assistance.