- Who can become a foster parent?
- Are there any special requirements?
- Do I need any special training?
- What exactly is certification?
- How long does it take?
- What types of children will I get?
- Do I have a say in which child I get?
Who can become a foster parent?
People who are married or single, male or female, at least 18 years of age, from any socioeconomic background and have good parenting skills as well as a sincere desire to care for and make a difference in the lives of foster children may become foster parents.
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Are there any special requirements?
In addition to being of good character and morale fiber, a person desiring to be a foster parent must clear a criminal back ground check and child abuse clearance, as well as being certified for first aid and CPR.
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Do I need any special training?
Yes. Along with mandatory training to recognize and report child abuse, you will receive 12 hours of training and orientation. Once you are trained and certified, we will provide you with continued training each month to meet requirements for continuing education for re-certification.
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What exactly is certification?
State regulations require potential foster parents to be certified before they can be foster parents. This process involves training and orientation, assessment of your family's readiness for foster parenting, evaluation of your home to assure safety and other legal requirements, finger print and child abuse clearances, first aid and CPR training and completion of the application packet.
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How long does it take?
Depending on whether or not you have any transferable clearances and the amount of time you need to complete the training process, the time will vary from 30 days to several months before certification is allowed.
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What types of children will I get?
Children of all ages and ethnic backgrounds are available for placement. Some children are in the system due to various circumstances beyond their control, while some of the older children may be there due to poor choices on their part. If any of the children have any problems, we provide the tools, training, and counseling to help you meet the child's needs.
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- Do I have a say in which child I get?
Yes. We make every effort to match the child with your home. You will be involved and have the option to accept or not accept a placement.
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"Being a foster
parent is one
of the hardest
things I have
ever done, but
is also the most
rewarding."
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