The Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet’s foster grandparent program offers older adults an opportunity to help children in their community develop academic and life skills that are critical to their development and future successes.
Sharing time and experience can help children learn how to read, prepare younger students for school readiness, tackle tough subjects and make decisions that will keep them on the right path.
“We’ll match your skills and passions to opportunities that interest you, including those in elementary schools in Districts 86 and [District] 89, faith based schools, Head Start sites and preschools,” Catholic Charities said in a release.
Foster grandparent volunteers must be age 55 and older and willing to serve about 20 hours a week. Foster grandparents who are income eligible will receive a tax-free hourly stipend to help cover costs associated with volunteering.
Volunteers do not need formal experience in tutoring and mentoring to become a foster grandparent. Catholic Charities said it will provide pre-service orientation and training to prepare volunteers for the program.
To learn more about volunteering, contact Mari at 815-724-1134 or mruiz@cc-doj.org. For more information about the programs and services provided by Catholic Charities, visit catholiccharitiesjoliet.org.