Foster Care: What is it and how to get started.
Are you ready to become a foster parent? We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and give you the support you need along the way.
What are the steps to Foster Care/Adoption Certification?
Orientation
Application
The beginning of the certification process and a requirement to proceed.
Fingerprinting
Every applicant and adult (over the age of 18) in the home will be fingerprinted.
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.
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.
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.
What are the next steps to Foster Care/Adopt?
If you are interested in becoming a Foster/Adoptive parent you can attend an orientation session where more information is given about the program, becoming certified, the children available for placement, and the training and home study process. If you like what you hear and are ready to proceed with certification, you will be invited to the pre-service training.
Foster Stories
We’ve been so amazed by our foster parents and their stories! Hear from some of our families about what it’s like to become a foster/adoptive parent and how they’re raising their children.
