There is a great need for parents willing to be licensed foster parents, able to provide a temporary home for children needing a stable, loving environment. There is also a need for parents wanting to adopt children that are legally available to be adopted. If you are interested in fostering temporarily, or fostering to adopt, you will first need to become a Certified Foster Parent and will begin the process by attending a new foster parent orientation. If you'd like to become a foster parent, please reach out to us via email at  info@fosteringcommunity.org.

We're hosting lunch and learn orientations in 2024 at Fostering Community.
Friday, January 26th from 12-1pm
Friday, March 15, 2024 from 12-1pm
Friday, May 17, 2024 from 12-1pm
Friday, July 26, 2024 from 12-1pm
Friday, September 20, 2024 from 12-1pm
Please email info@fosteringcommunity.org to preregister.

If you are just starting out on your foster care journey, we would LOVE to give you a book called "The Foster Journey"  created by CAFO. We have free copies at The Foster Care Closet. It is an incredible resource for new or prospective foster parents.

WHAT ARE THE STEPS TO FOSTER CARE/ADOPTION CERTIFICATION?

1. Orientation - Informational meeting to provide an overview of the agency and the foster/adoption programs.
2. Application -The beginning of the certification process and a requirement to proceed.
3. Fingerprinting - Every applicant and adult (over the age of 18) in the home will be fingerprinted.
4. Pre-Service Training - Training generally consists of seven three-hour sessions. All spouses must complete pre-service training to be certified. Children are not allowed at training.
5. Home Study - During training, caseworkers will conduct a series of interviews, home visits, a safety and fire inspection and additional paperwork. During this process, you will become familiar with the Home Development Worker.
6. Placement - After you are certified, a child or children will be placed in your home. This may happen immediately or may take longer, depending on what age and type of child you are able to care for. The agency will try to place children with you that match your strengths and preferences. You can always refuse any placement you are offered. During the certification process, you will explore what age(s), gender(s), race(s), number and type(s) of child(ren) you are able to care for and you will be certified accordingly.