Our Programs and Bursary

Our Programs and Bursary

Letters to Seniors Program

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, staying connected with others is more important than ever. Falling under our mission to bridge and enrich generations, in the summer of 2020, we initiated a new program aiding the creation of intergenerational connections within the community in a safe and engaging manner during these times.

Our new program called Letters to Seniors involves supporting isolated seniors with encouraging, meaningful handwritten letters sent by volunteers of all ages. The program consists of two phases:

Phase One: Volunteers of all ages send drawings / short cheerful cards / letters to seniors
Phase Two: Youth (18 and under) and seniors who are eager to build a connection with one another join the pen-pal format of the program, where they send letters back and forth and discuss their interests, hobbies, etc.

For more program information and ways to get involved, please email us at info@volunteergrandparents.ca  .

Family Match Program

The Family Match Program matches volunteers with families who have children between the ages of 3 to 14 years old and who do not have accessible grandparents. The program is designed to meet the social and emotional needs of older adults and families. The emphasis is on the creation of long term extended family relationships. The program has been providing seniors with the opportunity to be an important member of a family, enabling them to share time, love, skills and life experiences, while offering families the support, love and wisdom of caring seniors. Click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer or registering your family for our Family Match Program.

School Grandparent Program

The School Grandparent Program provides volunteers for assignments in elementary schools throughout the Lower Mainland. It began as a pilot project in 1996, in response to a lack of opportunities for young and old to relate in an increasingly age-segregated society. The pilot project was a resounding success. Beyond fostering intergenerational communication and cooperation, the program demonstrated significant benefit to educators. The volunteers enjoyed the chance to share skills, knowledge and experience, while providing a valuable community service. Volunteer Grandparents works in partnership with educators to develop, place and support Volunteers in the School Grandparent Program. Click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer or registering your school for our School Grandparent Program.

Ambassador Program

You can help us fill a void in a child’s life by promoting our programs at fun community events throughout the summer.  If you are over the age of 50, believe in the importance of grandparent connections and you want to meet new people, share your skills and have a positive impact in your community, then this important role is a good fit for you. Click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer for our Ambassador Program.

Florio Bursary

Created and generously donated by Mary and Paul Florio, this unique bursary program enhances the Family Match Program. Once a year, matched volunteers in the Family Match Program are given the opportunity to apply for the Florio Bursary on behalf of their grandchild. Bursary funds allow their grandchild to participate in exciting classes and activities, such as piano lessons, ski lessons, horseback riding lessons, and special camps. Click here to learn more about the Florio Bursary.