Catholic Human Services- Senior Companion & Foster Grandparent Programs

Senior Companion Program of NW Michigan

Rooted in the premise that people of all ages benefit from the gifts of shared time and friendship, this program links volunteers who have the time and compassion to share with older adults who welcome an opportunity for social interaction. Volunteers must be 55 or older, meet limited-income requirements, and be willing to share 20 hours per week assisting older adults. Forty hours of orientation are required before connections are made. Senior Companions receive an hourly non-taxable stipend, transportation reimbursement, ongoing training, and other benefits.

Foster Grandparent Program of NW Michigan

This program connects volunteers to children who can benefit from consistent, mature friendship and attention. Volunteers must be 55 or older, meet limited-income requirements and be willing to share 20 hours per week working with children at schools, Head Start centers, and other community locations. Following a 40-hour orientation process, Foster Grandparents are linked to selected children and are expected to visit them weekly. Foster Grandparents receive an hourly non-taxable stipend, transportation reimbursement, ongoing training, and other benefits.

We are the Senior Volunteer Programs which are Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent Programs. We cover 10 of the Northwester counties in Michigan. 

Our Mission:

To enrich the lives of the older adult volunteers as well as those of the seniors and children with unique challenges. THe program is designed to tap the talents, skills, knowledge and traditions of the volunteers, enable them to provide service to others, and to enhance their later years by brining a sense of vitality and renewal to their lives.