INTRODUCTION 

  The Volunteer Grandparents Society of Canada is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1973.   For over twenty-six years the society has been matching mature and senior adults with families whose children have no grandparents living nearby. 
 
 

THE VGPS SCHOOL GRANDPARENTING PROGRAM

    In 1996, in response to a number of requests from schools, VGPS developed a Social Mentoring Program for elementary schools. The goal of the program is to match seniors to school classes to be a support for children. Each participating school has up to five seniors who will meet with five teachers to outline needs and expectations.
 

THE VGPS SCHOOL GRANDPARENTING MISSION

Create a feeling of self-worth and personal competence.
Provide positive role models and bridges to Canadian values and culture.
Provide volunteers with the opportunity to share time and skills with children.
 

THE FIVE W’s

WHO?
    Volunteers aged 50+

WHAT?
    Listening, talking, crafts, reading, special events

WHERE?
    In the classroom, in the school library, In the computer room, In the playground.

WHEN?
    Volunteers are asked to commit themselves to a school for 2-3 hours one day a week during the school year as arranged with the classroom teacher.

WHY?
    In today’s busy world, many children do not have the opportunity for unhurried, non-judgmental interaction with a caring adult. Many students do not live close to grandparents and thus do not have a the chance to interact with someone of the older generation.
    The program promotes greater understanding and cooperation between generations. It also gives schools access to a dedicated and supportive volunteer group.
     School grandparent volunteers have unique experiences and  special skills to share with students.