AmeriCorps Seniors: Difference between revisions

First operational on August 28, 1965, the Foster Grandparents program enables [[Senior citizen|seniors]] to interact with and support young children, thus acting as [[Foster care|foster]] [[grandparents]]. Open to seniors 55 and over, the program's goal is to provide "grandparents" who will give emotional support to victims of abuse and [[tutor]], [[Mentorship|mentor]], and care for children with disabilities. The participants make a difference in the lives of these children, receive pre-service and monthly training sessions, transportation [[reimbursement]], an annual [[Physical examination|physical]], and [[Accident insurance|accident]] and [[liability insurance]] while working with the child/children. Some Foster Grandparents also receive small tax-free [[stipend]]s to offset costs incurred while participating in the program; eligibility for these stipends is based on income criteria.

Much like the Foster Grandparents program, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) seeks to provide a way in which senior citizens can give back to their community. Flexible in nature, RSVP allows participants to choose how and when they work. Open to seniors 55 and over, the program's goals are wide and varied, and include job training, tutoring children, building homes, helping [[Immunization|immunize]] children, relief services, and aid to community organizations. Volunteers are given a pre-service orientation, on-the-job training from the placement agency or organization, and supplemental insurance while on duty. This program does not provide a stipend.