Established in 1978, The Villages is a supportive community dedicated to brighter futures for children and families. In 2024, The Villages served 513 children in foster care. As a licensed, accredited, and local agency, we have 9 offices located throughout Indiana providing community-based services and support to children and families. Learn more about us.

Foster parents are trained and licensed homes in our communities who:

• Are 21 years of age or older
• Own or rent their own home with adequate space for a foster child
• Are single or married
• Have children, grown children, or no children
• Have strong community connections and supports

Still not sure if foster parenting is right for you? Reach out to us! We’d love to connect and provide more details to assist in your decision-making process. We also offer virtual information sessions if you’d like to learn more.

All foster parents with The Villages are trained to be therapeutic foster parents. This distinction requires state licensing that includes:

• 20 hours of pre-service training
• Physical exam
• Child abuse and sex abuse registry checks
• Criminal background checks
• Positive references
• Stable income (able to meet own family’s needs)
• Home visits and environmental checks
• First Aid, CPR, and Universal Precautions Certifications

Given the urgent need for foster homes, every attempt is made to expedite the licensing process. The average timeline can take anywhere from two to six months, and we can license your family based on how quickly you wish to proceed. Training classes and home visits are scheduled to accommodate your preferred timeline. Classes are offered virtually, with in-person options available and tailored to meet your schedule and needs. Contact an office near you for additional information.

As a foster parent with The Villages, you will provide a safe and nurturing home for children who have been removed from their families typically due to concerns about their personal health, safety, or well-being. You will receive training and support to meet the emotional and medical needs of children while helping them transition to reunification with their own family, adoption, or independent living.

When welcoming a child into your home, ensure a calm and gentle transition while helping them settle into a regular routine promptly. Your case manager at The Villages can assist you in coordinating clothing and personal items for the child’s needs. It is also important to provide a place for the child to keep his or her personal items.

Establish consistency, offering opportunities for the child to communicate openly without prying into their past or criticizing their parents. Foster the child’s confidence by assigning tasks within their ability and expressing joy in their achievements. Above all, be gentle, loving, and patient—children thrive in environments where they feel loved and secure.

Our therapeutic foster parents receive the following support services:

• Ongoing training and development (20 hours per year requirement)
• 24-hour staff support
• Counseling services for foster children
• Financial reimbursement for care of foster children
• Support groups
• Respite care
• Access to concrete supports (clothing, diapers, and other essentials)

The per diem rate varies based on the needs of the child. Every child that is placed in a licensed foster home is evaluated by the Department of Child Services. The per diem rate is then determined based on any needs the child may have.

Please contact us to find out more. We look forward to welcoming you into our family!