Volunteer Services

Foster Grandparents Program

“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”  —Elizabeth Andrew

Foster Grandparents

Foster Grandparent Program

Providing positive academic support to school age kids.

Volunteers help students succeed at reading, practicing math, writing, and more. Foster Grandparents enrich the lives of children by sharing their time and showing students they care.

ELIGIBILITY: Those interested in becoming Foster Grandparents must be age 55 or over and enjoy sharing their time with children. To be eligible for this program you must complete the application process and pass a criminal background check. Foster Grandparent volunteers serve five hours or more per week and take part in ADVOCAP provided training. Volunteers who meet income guidelines may qualify to earn a non-taxable hourly stipend.

Application Process for Becoming a Foster Grandparent:
  • You will meet with a Volunteer Development Specialist to discuss the program, answer your questions, and fill out a registration form.
  • Background checks will be processed.
  • The Volunteer Development Specialist will contact you at the conclusion of your background check to set up training.
  • You will be matched with a school and duties that best match your interests and abilities.
How to Contact ADVOCAP for assistance applying to become a Foster Grandparent:
Foster Grandparent

Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

Helping to promote positive change in our communities.

Volunteers serve at area nonprofits to help increase their efficiency, effectiveness. Volunteers help students, older adults, individuals with disabilities, families in need, and many other worthy community causes.

ELIGIBILITY: Those interested in becoming volunteers must be age 55 or over and desire to make a difference in their communities. To be eligible for this program you will be asked to complete an application and may require a criminal background check for certain volunteer positions.

Application Process for Retired & Senior Volunteer Program:
  • You will meet with a Volunteer Development Specialist to discuss the program, answer your questions, and fill out a registration form.
  • Background checks will be processed.
  • The Volunteer Development Specialist will contact you at the conclusion of your background check to set up training.
  • You will be matched with a school and duties that best match your interests and abilities.
How to Contact ADVOCAP for assistance applying to be a Volunteer for RSVP:
Retired & Senior Volunteer Program

Senior Friends Program

Checking in with elderly and disabled  individuals in their homes to reduce social isolation. 

Volunteers provide needed socialization, in-person or by phone, to individuals who are socially isolated which increases their quality of life and helps them to remain more independent. 

ELIGIBILITY: Those interested becoming a Senior Friend Volunteer must be age 55 or over and enjoy sharing their time with older adults. To be eligible for this program you must complete the application process, pass a criminal background check, and go through a training session provided by ADVOCAP staff.

Application Process the Senior Friends Program:
  • You will meet with Pat to discuss the program, answer your questions, and fill out an application form.
  • Background checks will be processed.
  • The Volunteer Development Specialist will contact you at the conclusion of your background check to set up training.
  • You will be introduced to a potential match, if you and the participant feel the match is mutually beneficial, you will provide ongoing companionship based on your schedule and availability.
How to Contact ADVOCAP for assistance applying to be a Senior Friend:
Senior Friends Program

Transportation Program

Providing transportation in Winnebago county region, enabling people to be more independent, healthier, and less socially isolated.

ADVOCAP’s volunteer transportation program provides rides for participants who are referred to us through Winnebago County ADRC and Veteran Services.  Drivers provide rides utilizing their personal vehicles and are reimbursed for their mileage.

ELIGIBILITY: Those interested in becoming Transportation Volunteers must be age 55 or over, have a valid license, insurance, registration, and a reliable car.  All drivers must pass a background check and receive training.

Application Process the Transportation Program:
  • You will meet with Elisabeth to discuss the program, answer your questions, and fill out application forms.
  • Background checks will be processed. The Volunteer Development Specialist will contact you at the conclusion of your background check.
  • Drivers will receive training on program rules & regulations, and driver etiquette.
  • Drivers receive requests for rides and choose which rides they will provide.
  • Drivers are reimbursed for mileage monthly.
How to Contact ADVOCAP for assistance applying to be a Volunteer Driver: