“Grandma Shirley loves us, and likes to help us,” a five-year old student of Lincoln Barge Elementary, in Yakima said. Shirley Blevins is a volunteer of the Foster Grandparent Program.
Megan Turner, coordinator for the program, is in charge of finding and screening volunteers for the various locations where the grandparent program is offered. “Grandparents help children at-risk have the chance to succeed,” Turner said. 
Grandparent volunteers must meet age and low-income requirements to participate in the program and receive the full benefits offered.  Volunteers receive a small monthly stipend, transportation reimbursement, provided meals, physical examinations, and insurance coverage while volunteering. Volunteers also reap the benefit of the fulfilling element of witnessing children’s lives changed and impacted. 
Several times a year the program holds “Thank You” events for the volunteers such as picnics and dinners with gifts at every event. 
Volunteers are asked to commit to 15-20 hours per week. 
This program offers Blevins the chance to have something to do, not feel depressed and ”is very rewarding because a lot is accomplished.” she said.  Children approach her for wisdom, love, attention, and homework help.  “Children that stay afterschool are here and not at home because mom and dad probably have to work,” Blevins said. 
The program sites are located in community sites, day cares, drug rehab centers and mainly in elementary schools serving children from infants to age 21.  Toppenish schools host the Foster Grandparent Program at Lincoln Elementary, Yakama Nation Head start, and a request to enroll the program at Garfield Elementary.  All sites are needing volunteers. 
“The program allows seniors to participate in a fulfilling role and meet their income needs,”  Turner said.  Seniors who do not meet low-income requirements are invited to volunteer but may not be eligible for the benefits. 
To find out more about volunteer opportunities in your area contact Megan Turner (509) 965-7100.