Foster grandparents recognized during National Volunteer Week

The Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program is spending National Volunteer Week focusing on a program that benefits children and older adults.

Those 55 and older are invited to become a foster grandparent. This program is part of AmeriCorps, which allows seniors to use their skills, talents and experiences to benefit their communities. The Community Action Program sponsors foster grandparents in Sauk, Vernon, Crawford, Green, Lafayette, Iowa, Richland and Grant counties.

Foster grandparents volunteer five to 40 hours per week during the school year to provide intergenerational mentoring and support at educational sites, non-profit child-care agencies and family enhancement programs.

Volunteers who meet income and program guidelines can receive a tax-free hourly stipend, paid training and allowances for transportation and meals.

For more information about becoming a foster grandparent, contact Cindy at c.deckert@swcap.org or 800-704-8555 ext. 209. Details are also posted at www.swcap.org.