Step #1: Orientation

The first step to becoming a Foster/Adoptive parent is to attend an orientation with an agency. I have to be honest, I was extremely nervous about attending the orientation. There were no commitments at the time, it was all informational. But still, I was nervous.

The orientation session was really good. If we decided to go with the agency presenting, we just needed to complete a form - and they would get back to us about the first home visit (Step #2). Here is what I learned from the orientation meeting:

• First, I wanted to work with this agency. They impressed me with their responsiveness when I initially called. At the orientation meeting, I was further impressed by their presentation. This was the agency for me. I completed the paper work and returned it before I left the orientation.
• Second, there is a huge need for Foster care in Arizona.
• Third, it was going to be a long process and there was going to be a lot I had to do to prepare to be a Foster Parent.

A few observations/concerns I had at the orientation:

• I was the only single person.
• Most of the couples were looking to adopt.
• There was a lot of criteria around dogs. (I have dogs and was worried that would stop me in the process).
• They had a requirement for 5 references. Two had to be relatives and three non-relatives. I only have one relative that can be a reference.
• I was on the "younger" side of those that attended.

I was able to resolve my concern with my dogs and the reference requirement by speaking to the presenters. Since I completed the paper work, the presenters informed me that the next step, Step #2, was to have a Home Visit from my assigned Licensing Specialist.

Just to show how AMAZING my agency is, I received a phone call from my Licensing Specialist a few days after the orientation meeting! I knew then that I chose the right agency. My orientation was on a Tuesday, my first home visit was THAT Friday. Amazing. Also, I would begin the PS-MAPP training in just 2 weeks! With the response time of the agency, I felt like I was on the "fast-track". No turning back now.