A Simple, Supportive Path to Becoming a Foster Parent

Getting started with foster care doesn’t require having everything figured out — instead, it simply begins with a conversation. When you reach out by completing a form or giving us a call, our team responds quickly, answers your questions, and provides clear, honest information.

From there, you set the pace. There’s no pressure to move forward. If you choose to explore fostering further, we partner with you and move at a speed that feels comfortable and manageable.

You Are Not Alone

At every stage, we prioritize partnership. Whether you decide to move forward quickly, take time between steps, or determine that fostering isn’t the right fit right now, we remain available to offer support with respect and clarity.

Ultimately, the journey toward fostering often starts with curiosity — and we walk alongside you throughout the process. As you move forward, you can take each step at your own pace, with steady guidance and consistent support along the way.

Steps to Fostering with Impact

Step 1: Reach Out

The first step is simply connecting with us. You can fill out a form or call our team directly. We’ll respond promptly to answer your questions, listen to what’s bringing you to foster care, and help you understand what fostering looks like with Impact Living Services.

This initial conversation is informational and supportive—there is no obligation to move forward.

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Step 2: Phone Conversation

After you reach out, we’ll schedule a phone conversation at a time that works for you. This call is an opportunity to:

  • Ask questions
  • Learn about foster care and our programs
  • Talk through your interests, concerns, and availability
  • Understand the next steps if you choose to continue

This conversation helps ensure you feel informed and supported as you decide what comes next.

Step 3: Application

Submit an application

If you choose to move forward, the next step is completing an application. The application helps us learn more about you and your household and begins the formal process.

Our team is available to guide you through the application and answer questions along the way. This step is about gathering information—not evaluating perfection.

Step 4: Pre-Service Training

All foster parents complete required pre-service training focused on trauma-informed care. Training is designed to be practical, supportive, and relevant to real-life fostering.

Pre-service training is self-paced, allowing you to progress through the material at your convenience, based on your schedule, learning style, and readiness. Throughout training, our team is available to provide support, answer questions, and help you prepare for placement.

Step 5: Home Study

The home study is a collaborative process that helps ensure your home is safe and ready for a child. It includes home visits, interviews, and required documentation.

Our team walks you through each part of the home study, explains what to expect, and supports you throughout the process. The goal is preparation and safety—not judgment.

Step 6: Certification

Once training and the home study are complete, families may become certified as foster parents. Certification allows you to be considered for placement when a child’s needs align with your home.

Even after certification, support continues. Our team remains involved before, during, and after placement to ensure you and the child are supported.

Taking the first step toward foster care doesn’t require a commitment—just curiosity.

You’ll find several simple next steps below to help you explore fostering. Start wherever feels most comfortable, and take the first step toward your journey when you’re ready.

Get in Contact with Impact

Send an email to our Impact team, no commitment, no pressure
Talk One-on-One with Impact Staff

Chat with our team one-on-one with your questions
Submit an Application to Foster

Begin the application process

Go at Your Own Pace

We understand that choosing to become a foster parent is a significant decision. For that reason, we design the licensing process to support thoughtful, steady progress — not speed. You can take time between steps, ask questions as they arise, and move forward only when you feel ready. Throughout the process, we guide and support you rather than rush you.

Whether you prefer to move quickly or take one step at a time, we partner with you intentionally and meet you exactly where you are.

Foster Care FAQs