1 of 12

FC/A Support

Volunteer Pointers

1

2 of 12

30-50%

Last More

Than A Year

The primary reason foster families stop fostering is a lack of social support.

[Additionally, we have no way of knowing how many families would start fostering

if they knew they would have a team of people to support them in their journey.]

2

8%

Make it to the

5 year mark

Only

3 of 12

“It is irresponsible to recruit new foster families without simultaneously recruiting support for those families.”

Kristin Allender

TKB Executive Director

3

4 of 12

Bridging the

needs of foster families

with the

resources from the faith community

4

5 of 12

Confidentiality

Appropriate Touch

5

Always defer to the family on this topic
In general - side hugs, high fives, fist bumps are appropriate touch
Never be alone with any child - always have another person present

This is the child's story
Foster families sign confidentiality agreements
Operate on a "need to know" basis
Be cautious about what questions you ask, especially around children.
Mandated Reporting

6 of 12

How to be a Friend to a Foster Parent

Recognize they aren't heroes - they are parents just like everyone else
Give them room to talk, but don't ask for details
Don't tell them to quit
Traditional parenting techniques may not work
Ask about respite needs
Love their kids well

6

7 of 12

Words of Encouragement

Can use emails, texts, cards/mail, phone calls
Bolsters the family during the good and hard times
Boldly share the truth in love - these families crave your support and encouragement

7

8 of 12

Respite/Relief Care

Get to know the child(ren) alongside mom and/or dad
Be a natural & consistent presence in their lives
Talk to parents EACH time about whether or not your children (if applicable) can join you
Invest in these kids
If you are asked to provide respite and cannot, suggest another date. Be an ENTHUSIASTIC support!

8

9 of 12

Acts of Service

Offer enthusiastically and in a spirit of love
Designed to meet the needs of the family
Low maintenance for the family - we don't want to add stress or burdens on them
When serving, be mindful of the amount of time you stay to visit
Get creative and use your talents and skills

9

10 of 12

Prayer

It's a spiritual battle
Pray frequently & fervently
Tell the family you are praying for them
Be an ENTHUSIASTIC prayer warrior - your enthusiasm will show the family you WANT to pray for them
Pray for - child(ren), biological parents, foster/adoptive/kinship caregiver parents, judge, case worker, lawyers, therapists
Write out your prayers and send them to the family

10

11 of 12

11

INSTEAD OF THIS...

"If there's anything I can do, let me know!"

-a well intentioned friend

12 of 12

Try This Instead…

12

We would like to bring you

a meal, what night is best

for you?

I'm running by the store today, what can I pick up for you and when can I drop it off?

We would like to stop by for a few minutes to say "hello", is that okay? When would be a good time?

Drop off a gift card for groceries, gas, a restaurant or clothing store.

Meals

Gift Cards

Tag on Errands

Personal (but brief) Visit