“Shining a Light on the People and Causes that Inspire Us to Serve”, the theme for the 2023 National Volunteer Week, reflects the influence of change makers in our community and around the country who come together to build stronger more vibrant communities.
Volunteerism affirms the strong connection between volunteers and their communities. The human connection of volunteerism is at the heart of building stronger communities by caring individuals. By giving their time and talent, volunteers are positive change makers and role models in their communities.
National Volunteer Week was first designated as an annual observance by Executive Order by President Nixon in 1974 and every President since has signed a proclamation thanking volunteers for their valuable services. Foster Grandparent volunteers will be among the millions of dedicated volunteers honored during the 2023 National Volunteer Week planned for April 16-22.
The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), a national volunteer program celebrating more than 50 years of service to America’s youth, is one of three programs of AmeriCorps Seniors which taps the skills, talents, and experiences of senior adults to meet a wide range of community needs. Locally the Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program (Southwest CAP) sponsors the FGP in counties of Grant, Richland, Iowa, Lafayette, Green, Crawford, Vernon, and Sauk. Foster Grandparents volunteers do not provide services in their homes; instead, FGP volunteers provide an intergenerational component at educational sites such as schools, not-for-profit childcare agencies, and family enhancement programs.
FGP is administered through the federal agency AmeriCorps that assists local not-for-profit and public agencies in carrying out their missions. To assist in off-setting the cost of volunteering, qualified Foster Grandparent volunteers who meet FGP income and program guidelines receive a tax-free hourly stipend, meal and mileage allowance, training and other benefits including the satisfaction of helping youth in their community.
National Volunteer Week offers the opportunity to thank Foster Grandparents for channeling their life skills into positive change in their community.
If you or someone you know is 55 or older and would like to learn more about sharing your time and experience as a Foster Grandparent volunteer please contact Cindy at Southwest CAP’s Dodgeville office at 149 North Iowa St., Dodgeville. You may also email at c.deckert@swcap.org or call 1-800-704-8555 extension 209. Additional information on the Foster Grandparent Program is provided at www. americorps.gov or www.swcap.org.
