Become a Foster Parent

The decision to become a foster parent is a decision that is often a long time in the making. There are a number of important things to consider in determining if foster parenting is for you. Once the decision is made, it is easy to find the help needed to become certified or licensed to be a foster parent. Local government funded adoption agencies have social workers that will provide assistance and service. The National Foster Parent Association provides information and numerous resources for foster parents and potential foster parents.

Foster parents have been described as adults who open their hearts, arms, and homes to some of our most precious and vulnerable children. They are willing to offer safety, love and nurturing that all children need, even to children that are not their own. They are there, even when it's hard, to help children face and heal from the painful wounds of abuse and neglect, and abandonment. They help children prepare for uncertain futures and build strengths to face inevitable challenges and opportunities. Foster parents are people who know in their heart of hearts that the rewards of helping a child, of making a difference in a child's life that lasts forever, is worth any problem or heartache that may arise. Jeffrey Silla has written a wonderful article filled with information and insight to help parents in making a decision on whether or not to be a foster parent.

AdoptUSKids and the Adoption Exchange Association is launching a national recruitment campaign for foster parents in the summer of 2004. Those interested in becoming foster parents will be assisted through the process in their local areas as a result of this outreach activity. Watch for public service announcements and ads prepared by the Ad Council.