Media Release

​ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Commission proclaimed April 5, 2016, as “Recognition Day for National Service” and recognized the Alachua County Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) for their work in the community.

April 5, 2016, is recognized nationally by the Corporation for National and Community Service as the annual Mayor and County Day of Recognition for National Service. The goals of this day are to highlight the impact of national service in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing cities and counties and to thank those serving in AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs.

In Alachua County, FGP volunteers are actively engaged in efforts to address important community needs. Notable contributions made locally include:

• 105 FGP volunteers working towards positive, education-related outcomes
• 93,000+ hours served by these volunteers
• 200+ children receiving one-on-one assistance
• 67% of children served last year showed improvement in literacy and/or math skills
• 18 mentor matches sustained last year
• 30 partner agencies serving as host sites for volunteer placements 
• $25,000+ in in-kind donations received last year

The Alachua County Foster Grandparent Program is currently seeking volunteers to work one-on-one with children, especially in Head Start classes, elementary schools, and after school programs.

FGP was established in Alachua County in 1973. It is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service and is sponsored locally by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners.

For more information, call the Alachua County Foster Grandparent Program at 352-264-6731.