Becoming a Foster Parent in Arizona: Everything You Need to Know

Are you interested in becoming a foster parent in Arizona and making a positive impact on the lives of children in need? Here’s what you need to know:

• Meet the basic requirements: To become a foster parent in Arizona, you must be at least 21 years old, a legal resident of Arizona, and be able to pass background checks and home inspections.
• Complete training: Foster parents in Arizona are required to complete a 30-hour training program before they can begin fostering children. The program covers topics such as child development, trauma, and effective communication with birth families.
• Attend orientation: Before you can begin the training program, you must attend a Foster Care and Adoption Orientation to learn about the system and what to expect as a foster parent.
• Submit an application: To apply to become a foster parent in Arizona, you’ll need to complete an application and provide information about your family, your home, and your experience working with children.
• Complete a home study: As part of the application process, you’ll need to undergo a home study, which includes a home inspection, interviews with family members, and a review of your financial and medical history.
• Get licensed: Once you’ve completed the training program and home study, you’ll receive a foster care license from the state of Arizona.

Keep in mind that becoming a foster parent in Arizona is a serious commitment and requires a lot of dedication and hard work. However, the rewards of providing a safe and stable home for a child in need can be immeasurable.

how to become a foster parent in Arizona

Number of licensed foster parents in Arizona	5,000+
Number of children in foster care in Arizona	14,000+
Age range of children in foster care	Newborn to 18 years old
Number of siblings placed together	63%
Percentage of foster parents who adopt their foster children	29%
Training hours required for foster parents	30+
Typical length of time a child is in foster care	12-18 months

Guide to Becoming a Foster Parents in Arizona: References and Resources

There are several resources available for those interested in becoming a foster parent in Arizona. Some helpful references to dig deeper include:

• The Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) website offers detailed information about foster care, including eligibility requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions. The website also has contact information for local DCS offices.
• The Foster Care Review Board (FCRB) provides support and advocacy for foster children and their families. They offer training and support groups for foster parents, as well as information on the legal rights and responsibilities of foster parents in Arizona.
• The Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents (AZAFAP) is a non-profit organization that provides resources, training, and support for foster and adoptive parents. They offer online training courses, networking events, and advocacy services for foster families.
• The Child Welfare Information Gateway is a national resource center for information and resources on child welfare, including foster care. Their website provides a wealth of information on foster care policies and practices, as well as links to helpful resources for foster parents.
• Local foster care agencies and organizations may also offer training, support, and resources for prospective foster parents. Contacting these organizations directly may provide additional information and guidance on becoming a foster parent in Arizona.

If you’d like to delve deeper into the topic of how to become a foster parent, we encourage you to utilize our search feature in KOBI International or visit the official websites and references for accessing relevant materials.