Foster Grandparents Program

Get Involved. Make a Difference. Change a Child’s Life.

The Department of Senior Affairs is a community leader committed to bringing people of all ages together to build a stronger, more caring community. In partnership with local organizations, we empower seniors to share their wisdom, stay independent, and live with dignity, while making a lasting impact on future generations.

Become a Foster Grandparent

Foster Grandparents provide one-on-one mentoring, support, and encouragement to children who need it most. If you love children and want to make a meaningful difference, this program is for you.

Eligibility Requirements:

- Be 55 years of age or older
- Commit to an average of 20 hours per week
- Successfully pass a criminal history background check
- Love children and have a desire to positively impact their lives

Why Become a Foster Grandparent?

For Teachers: Receive valuable classroom support through individualized mentoring and tutoring for students.

For Children: Gain guidance and encouragement from a caring, positive adult role model supporting their physical, mental, emotional, and social development.

For Seniors: Stay active, engaged, and connected to the community while helping a child succeed.

Volunteer Benefits Include:
- Pre-service and monthly training opportunities
- Supplemental accident and liability insurance while on duty
- Mileage reimbursement
- Annual recognition events
- Tax-free hourly stipend of $4 (income-eligible)
- Your Time. Their Future. Our community.

Join the Foster Grandparent Program today and help shape brighter futures, one child at a time.

Albuquerque’s Foster Grandparents serve under the supervision of teachers and specialists in a variety of educational and community settings, including Albuquerque Public Schools, State Charter Schools, City of Albuquerque Child Development Centers, YDI Head Start programs, and other community organizations.

Our volunteers serve in over 20 schools, Head Start programs, and childcare centers, all within the Albuquerque community.

Foster Grandparents use their life experience, patience, and compassion to support children with exceptional needs by serving as a trusted friend, mentor, and positive role model.

Through one-on-one attention and encouragement, Foster Grandparents help children:

- Build basic learning and early literacy skills.   

- Develop self-care and social skills

- Improve confidence and emotional well-being

- Strengthen physical, mental, and social development

By simply being present and caring, Foster Grandparents provide the individual attention children need to learn, grow, and succeed.