Evaluating Foster Grandparents
Abstract
The Foster Grandparent Program in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, uses an annual evaluation completed by the Foster Grandparent and his/her site supervisor to better troubleshoot concerns and issues. The program then looks at all the evaluations to identify areas of improvement for the overall program.Issue
Foster Grandparent programs are required to complete evaluations of their volunteers.Action
An annual evaluation is completed in January or February of each year. The Foster Grandparents are given the evaluation or it is given to the site supervisor with a due date. The program has a tracking system to ensure all evaluations are completed.
As much detail is added to the document before printing, including the area supervisor's name and address, director's name, and so forth, to limit duplication of efforts.
The program encourages the Foster Grandparents and site supervisors to use the annual evaluation as a tool to enhance dialogue about needs, challenges, and successes.
The evaluation calls for information (from site supervisor) on attendance, attitude, communication, interpersonal skills, and willingness to follow policies and procedures.
The evaluation calls for information (from Foster Grandparent) on support and training practices, attitude, and overall benefits of volunteering.
The evaluation also calls for information from the area supervisor.
When all evaluations have been completed, the program does a statistical analysis of them to identify areas that need to be worked on for the overall program.
Context
The St. Cloud, Minn., Foster Grandparent program currently (2004) has 200 Foster Grandparents and 90 stations.Evidence
The evaluation has resulted in better troubleshooting of concerns or issues. The Foster Grandparents receive much-deserved praise, and relationships have improved between the site, Foster Grandparent, and area supervisor.Posted On
November 13, 2001For More Information