You don’t have to have everything figured out to become a foster parent.
You just have to be willing to start.
Many people think foster care is complicated, overwhelming, or only for “superhuman” families. The truth? It’s a journey made up of simple steps, one at a time. And you don’t walk it alone. At Impact, we guide you from your first question all the way to welcoming a child into your home.
If you’ve ever wondered “Could I do this?” this guide is for you.
Step 1: Start the Conversation
This is the easiest and most important step.
It begins with a phone call, email, or filling out an interest form. There is no pressure. This is simply your chance to ask questions, share your story, and learn what foster care really looks like.
You’ll talk with a real person who understands your fears and your hopes. We’ll discuss your life, your schedule, your family, and what you’re thinking about. Many people leave this first conversation feeling relieved and excited.
You don’t have to commit. You just have to be curious.
Step 2: The Application
If you decide to move forward, you’ll complete an application. This is simply your opportunity to share your story—who you are, what matters to you, and why you’re considering foster care.
Many families tell us this is the moment something shifts. The quiet thought in the back of their mind becomes a real, intentional step. Filling out the application often brings both excitement and nerves, but also a sense of purpose. It’s the beginning of turning compassion into action.
Step 3: Training
Training is where your confidence begins to grow.
You’ll learn:
- What children in foster care have experienced
- How trauma impacts behavior
- Practical parenting tools that actually work
- How to partner with families and professionals
- How to care for yourself along the way
You don’t have to know everything before you start. Training gives you the foundation and support you need.
Step 4: Required Paperwork
This part is not glamorous, but it’s important. We’ll walk you through each step.
This includes:
- Background and safety checks
- DMV and driving record
- Medical screenings
- Financial stability verification
These steps help ensure children are placed in safe, stable homes. We make this process as simple and organized as possible.
Step 5: The Home Study
The home study is not about judging your house. It’s about getting to know you.
There are typically three visits in your home. We talk about:
- Your childhood and life experiences
- What you learned in training
- Your strengths as a caregiver
- What types of children might be a good fit for your family and lifestyle
This is a relationship-building process. Many families say this is where they truly begin to see themselves as foster parents.
Step 6: Certification
Once everything is complete, you become a certified foster parent in Virginia. This is a moment worth celebrating. You’ve invested time, heart, and courage to prepare your home.
And now you’re ready.
Step 7: Matching and Referrals
When children need a foster home, we carefully consider which family might be the best match. We look at:
- Your strengths
- Your experience
- The child’s needs
- Personality and family dynamics
You always have a voice in this process. The goal is not just placement—it’s the right placement.
Step 8: Placement
This is the moment when a child or teen walks into your home.
It may feel emotional, exciting, and even a little overwhelming. That’s normal. You are not alone. Impact provides ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement every step of the way.
You are part of a team now.
You Don’t Have to Be Perfect
Foster care is not about being perfect. It’s about being present.
- You don’t need a big house.
- You don’t need all the answers.
- You don’t need to be fearless.
You just need a willingness to learn, a stable environment, and a heart open to walking alongside a child during one chapter of their story.
And that chapter can change everything.
Ready to Learn More?
If this feels like something you could offer — even imperfectly — then there may be a place for you here.
You don’t have to have all the answers. Instead, you simply need a willingness to learn and grow along the way. So, if you’re feeling curious or beginning to explore the idea, we would truly love to connect. From there, we can answer your questions and help you discover what fostering could look like for your family and your life right now.
Reach out today and start the conversation. We would be honored to walk this journey with you.
Learn More About Fostering form