November 27, 2024
National Adoption Day
This Thanksgiving, we reflect on the many things we feel grateful for and want to share our gratitude. Janet Lucas,…
Read More Impact is on a Mission...
To Expand Support for Virginia’s Youth in Foster Care
At Impact, we began our journey in 2012 by creating an Independent Living program to support youth aging out of foster care. Over time, we expanded our services to fulfill our mission: changing outcomes for vulnerable community members throughout Virginia. A key component in fulfilling this mission is treatment foster care, which gives us a head start in creating better outcomes for those we serve.
However, this mission is not one we can achieve alone. We need safe, supportive family environments where foster youth can live with people who care as deeply as we do. By providing homes like these, together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of Virginia’s foster youth and their families.
That’s why we need people like you to open your hearts and homes. Partner with us to provide the essential support our youth in foster care need.
Want to Learn More First?
Keep scrolling to get more information about fostering with Impact.
Being A Foster Parent Requires Support
We here at Impact recognize that welcoming a new child or teenager into your home can be overwhelming and no one person can manage this all on their own! That is why we ensure you are well equipped and supported while becoming a foster parent in Virginia.
Pre-Service Training & Home Assessment
Impact works to ensure that new foster families and their homes are well prepared to accept a youth in foster care into their home. We provide comprehensive training that will prepare you for any scenario you may face and meet you in your home to assist you with ensuring your environment meets the standards set by the Virginia Department of Social Services.
24/7 On-Call Support
Being a foster parent is a 24/7 responsibility. We know that events requiring our assistance don’t go on pause after business hours, so we work to ensure that there is always someone available to take your call at any time day or night.
On-Going Training
Impact provides on-going training opportunities that ensure families have the latest information and strategies available so that they can accept youth in foster care into their home with confidence.
Support Hours
We provide up to 10 hours of individualized support directly to the foster family depending on the level of the youth, tailored to their developmental level and the specific needs of the foster family.
Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become certified?
The process to become a certified foster parent typically takes about three months, though the exact time may vary.
Do I need to have a job?
You must have a steady income that covers your household needs and financial obligations, but having a job is not a requirement.
Can single people foster?
Yes, there were approximately 3,100 single parents serving as foster parents in the state. This represents about 21% of all foster parents in Virginia.
Who are the children that I would foster?
Foster children come from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. They are often part of a sibling group or may be teens.
How many foster children will I have?
Generally, one child or a sibling group will be placed in your home.
Not Ready to Foster?
That's ok, if you'd still like to help check out the other ways you can help.