MAYVILLE – Chautauqua County Social Services is in search of foster grandparents.

Foster grandparents are kind souls who share their experience with children in our community. They are role models, mentors and friends to children with exceptional needs. The program provides a way for volunteers age 55 and over to stay active by serving children and youth in your community.

Volunteers serve at local organizations that:

¯ Help children learn to read and provide one-on-one tutoring

¯ Mentor troubled teenagers and young mothers

¯ Care for children with disabilities

¯ Help children who have been abused or neglected

All you need to join is the ability to give the kind of comfort and love that sets a child on the path toward a successful future. If you’re 55 or older and want to share your experience and compassion, you have what it takes to be a foster grandparent.

Those who qualify receive:

¯ A tax-free stipend, that is tax-free

¯ Flexible work hours — a minimum of 15 hours per week or as much as 40 hours

¯ Travel assistance

¯ Monthly in-service trainings

¯ Meals

¯ Social and recognition events with other Foster Grandparent volunteers

For more information, call 665-5354.