Ever thought of becoming a foster parent?

Do you have what it takes to be a Youth Advocates Foster Parent?

• Are you flexible, understanding, patient and kind?
• Are you willing to accept a young person who you don't know into your home?
• Are you willing to try and work through both the good and difficult times with youth living in your home?
• Are you willing to work closely with Youth Advocates staff and other team members to support the best interests of youth in your home?
• If you answered yes to most of the above questions then you have what it takes to become a Youth Advocates Foster Parent.

Steps to becoming a Youth Advocates Foster Parent:

1. Contact Jamie Rettinger at Youth Advocates, (206) 781-2401.
She will speak with you and tell you about our program and ask questions about your interests in foster care and about your home and work circumstances. She will also answer additional questions you may have about the program. If we determine together that you would be a good fit for our agency then we will set a date to meet in person at our office.

2. During your meeting at the office we will have you

• Fill out an application for background clearance
• Complete a foster parent application
• Receive a packet of forms and policies to sign and fill out and sign
• Talk about training and licensing requirements.

3. Please bring a copy of your driver’s license and insurance card along with three personal references to this meeting.

4. Be aware that the entire process takes from 4-6 months.

5. After your packet is received and we get your references back, we will schedule a home visit. This consists of an interview that lasts from 2-3 hours and a tour of your home. We will then combine all of your information and write a home study. After the home study and after you have completed all required trainings we will submit the materials to the state of Washington for licensing. We will also provide you with a respite packet. We request that all families becoming licensed have a respite resource to help and support you once you are licensed. In 2-3 weeks Congratulations! You are now a licensed foster parent.

6. Youth Advocates provides a monthly stipend, intensive case management support, case aide services, paid respite and ongoing training and consultation for foster parents.

If you would like more information on becoming a foster parent, please visit our contact page or fill out the contact form.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!