Appalachian Senior Programs

Appalachian Senior Programs (ASP), sponsored by Appalachian State University, assists children and the senior population of a five-county area in northwestern North Carolina through the grant-funded Foster Grandparent program and Senior Companion program. Consisting of volunteers, ages fifty-five and older, ASP enhances the social-emotional and academic skills of children who need one-on-one assistance, and provides companionship and assistance for older adults who do not qualify for other assistance.

Our programs

Foster Grandparent Program

Foster Grandparent Program

Foster Grandparent volunteers assist children in need of academic attention by providing an older companion to help the children overcome their academic challenges. Foster Grandparents will assess academic skills as well as life and social skills and ultimately serve as a role model.

Learn about the Foster Grandparent Program

Senior Companion Program

Senior Companion Program

While some older adults qualify for in-home services, many in the High Country do not. As a senior companion volunteer, you may help other adults maintain independence by providing companionship and assistance.

Learn about the Senior Companion Program

Make a difference

When you join Appalachian Senior Programs, you have the opportunity to give back to your community, while also earning a small stipend. Through helping children with educational and social skills or providing companionship and assistance to an older peer adult, you can be an agent of change by supporting those who need assistance in your community. Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion volunteers provide much-needed services in Ashe, Alleghany, Avery, Watauga, and Wilkes counties.