Research and Impact

Pepperdine’s Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is committed to improving outcomes for children, youth, older adults, and communities through meaningful intergenerational service. Through ongoing evaluation, data-informed decision-making, and scholarly research, the program seeks to understand and demonstrate its impact on academic achievement, social-emotional development, mentoring relationships, volunteer well-being, and community engagement.

AmeriCorps Seniors supports programming that is informed by evidence, guided by measurable outcomes, and strengthened through continuous learning and evaluation. In alignment with these priorities, the FGP engages in activities that contribute to the growing evidence base supporting intergenerational service and mentoring programs, including scholarly research.

This page highlights published research, impact reports/testimonies, and other resources that showcase the effectiveness of the FGP. These efforts support continuous improvement, informed decision-making, accountability, and measurable community impact. 

Featured Academic Publications

"Analyzing the Impact: Foster Grandparent Program"

Weatherspoon, S., Chen, M., & Pereda, M. (2026). Analyzing the Impact: Foster Grandparent Program. The Scholarship Without Borders Journal, 4(2), Article 11. 

Published in The Scholarship Without Borders Journal, this peer-reviewed study examines the impact of the Foster Grandparent Program on participating youth and older adult volunteers through the framework of intergenerational solidarity. Findings highlight positive youth academic and behavioral outcomes, increased volunteer self-efficacy, and the value of intergenerational mentoring relationships.

Read the article: https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/swbj/vol4/iss2/11

Download the Full Text PDF: https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1094&context=swbj