Volunteer Programs
AmeriCorps Seniors
AmeriCorps Seniors is a network of volunteer programs for Americans aged 55 and older offering opportunities for seniors to serve their communities in various ways, such as mentoring students, providing companionship to other seniors, assisting with disaster relief, and more. The program includes initiatives like the Foster Grandparent Program, RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), and the Senior Companion Program, each designed to match volunteers with meaningful service opportunities
Foster Grandparent Program (FGP)
FGP connects volunteers aged 55 and older with children and youth who have special or exceptional needs. Volunteers serve as mentors, tutors, and caregivers, providing emotional support and guidance to help young people succeed. They work in schools, Head Start programs, childcare centers, and other community organizations. Foster Grandparents assist children with disabilities, mentor teenagers and young parents, and help students improve their academic performance. Volunteers who meet income eligibility requirements receive a modest, tax-free stipend, transportation reimbursement, meals during service, and supplemental insurance.
Senior Companion Program (SCP)
SCP connects volunteers aged 55 and older with older adults who need assistance with daily living tasks. Volunteers provide companionship, help with errands, and offer emotional support to seniors who may be isolated or struggling to remain independent in their homes. The program also provides respite for family caregivers. Senior Companions who meet income eligibility requirements receive a modest, tax-free stipend, transportation reimbursement, meals during service, and supplemental insurance. Volunteers report improved health and well-being through their service.
Care Companion Program (CCP)
The Care Companion Program provides volunteer opportunities for individuals aged 18 and older to offer companionship and support to residents in assisted living facilities and other care settings. Volunteers engage in meaningful interactions, helping seniors combat loneliness and maintain emotional well-being. They may assist with social activities, provide conversation and friendship, or help with non-medical daily living tasks. The Care Companion Program expands its reach to facility-based care, ensuring residents receive regular visits and social connection.
RSVP
The AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) is one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the U.S., offering people aged 55 and older a wide range of service opportunities. Volunteers can choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to 40 hours per week. RSVP volunteers engage in activities such as tutoring children, assisting with disaster relief, providing food support, mentoring, and more. Some programs offer a modest stipend to eligible volunteers, along with benefits like supplemental insurance and mileage reimbursement. Volunteers report improved health and well-being through their service.
Key Differences
The key differences are the age requirement, service settings and stipends. The Care Companion Program (CCP) is open to younger volunteers (18+), whereas all AmeriCorps Seniors programs require volunteers to be at least 55. Additionally, CCP focuses on companionship for seniors in assisted living facilities, whereas SCP serves seniors living independently. FGP, SCP and CCP offer stipends for income eligible volunteers. Income eligibility is set at 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. RSVP does not offer stipends but may provide accident, personal liability and excess automobile insurance.
Provider Information
Links and Resources
Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) and Senior Companion Program (SCP)
Basic Eligibility
Must be 55 years or older.
Must be willing to serve at least 5 hours per week (can volunteer up to 40 hours per week).
Must complete required background checks.
Income Eligibility for Stipend
Volunteers must have an annual income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for a stipend.
Income is calculated based on the applicant’s and their spouse’s income (if living in the same residence).
Certain medical expenses (such as health insurance premiums, healthcare services, and medications) can be deducted when determining eligibility.
Food stamps are not counted as income for eligibility purposes.
RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program)
Basic Eligibility
Must be 55 years or older.
Must be willing to serve in a volunteer role that aligns with RSVP’s mission.
No income eligibility requirement—RSVP is open to all seniors regardless of financial status.
Must complete any required background checks (varies by volunteer role and organization).
Care Companion Program Eligibility
Basic Eligibility
Must be 18 years or older.
Must be willing to serve at least 5 hours per week (can volunteer up to 40 hours per week).
Must complete required background checks.
Income Eligibility for Stipend
Volunteers must have an annual income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for a stipend.
Income is calculated based on the applicant’s and their spouse’s income (if living in the same residence).
Certain medical expenses (such as health insurance premiums, healthcare services, and medications) can be deducted when determining eligibility.
Food stamps are not counted as income for eligibility purposes.