The First Steps to Foster Parenting

Taking the first steps to becoming a foster parent can be daunting. So many questions… Can I foster?, How do I get started?, What do the children need?,  Will I have help?

May is Foster Parent Appreciation Month and what better time to share how many foster parents begin their journey and the amazing work they do. The Villages has a dynamic recruiting team that works statewide to provide information and insight for those considering fostering. We asked a few of our team members to share about our monthly foster parent information sessions.

Why is it important for someone considering fostering to attend an information session?

Information sessions are a great opportunity to learn about The Villages as a statewide organization along with the value foster parents bring by becoming a part of a great journey. We acknowledge that it is hard work and out of some people’s comfort zone, but our amazing staff is right alongside families who become foster parents.

Nicollette Love

Regional Licensing Supervisor, Indianapolis

What’s the most common question you get from interested participants?

I meet a lot of single parents who have concerns that being a single parent could hinder their ability to become a licensed foster parent. It doesn’t. If you are financially stable and able to provide for a child without outside assistance, you can become a foster parent.

Laney Thurston

Regional Supervisor-Foster Home Licensing, Kokomo

What do you wish people knew about becoming a foster parent?

How easy the process is. Participants are surprised to learn how much information is needed and classes required. Yet they are happy to discover it is not complex and that we offer a lot of support both during licensing and when they accept a foster child into their home.

Amber Reiff

Licensing Case Manager, Ft. Wayne

What do you enjoy most about leading an information session?

I enjoy the possibilities of walking people through the process. I especially like giving specific answers or feedback when families decide to start the process. Foster parenting is a win for everyone. I know information sessions are a time when parents are making decisions, so I share the dazzle that The Villages team brings supporting families and children.

Kim Daley

Recruitment Specialist, Portage

The Villages is committed to finding safe foster homes for children and supporting our heroic foster parents. Our team of highly qualified leaders is ready to explain what it takes to be a foster parent, how to start, what to expect, and the benefits for all involved. We believe it is critical to provide 24/7 support, even after the initial licensing is complete. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent and what that entails, the first step is to attend a no obligation, information session.

To find an information session near you, visit https://villageskids.org/foster-a-child/