GEAUGA COUNTY – Become a foster parent
May is National Foster Parent Month, a time to recognize the individuals and families who provide safe, supportive homes for children in need—and to encourage others to consider making a difference. In Geauga County, the need for foster families continues to grow, with more children entering care than there are available homes.
Through Geauga County Job and Family Services, local residents have the opportunity to step in and provide stability during one of the most challenging times in a child’s life. Foster parents serve as temporary caregivers for children, teens, and infants while their families work toward reunification—an outcome that remains the goal in most cases.
Foster parenting is about more than providing a place to stay. It’s about helping children heal, maintain important family connections, and build a path forward. As the agency emphasizes, a child is counting on you to Foster Their Way Home™.
Who can become a foster parent?
Many people are surprised to learn how accessible foster parenting can be. You may qualify if you:
Every child in foster care has experienced some level of trauma, and each situation is unique. In Geauga County, many children are ultimately reunited with their families, making it essential for foster parents to support those relationships whenever possible.
There is a growing need for families willing to care for teens, sibling groups or children with medical or higher-level needs.
By saying “yes,” foster parents can help siblings stay together, keep children in their schools and communities, and provide consistency during uncertain times.
Making a lasting impact
Foster parenting requires compassion, patience, and flexibility—but the impact is profound. It’s a chance to be a steady, supportive presence while a child and their family work toward a better future.
Just as important, foster parents are not alone. Building a strong support network and working closely with local agencies helps ensure both the child and the foster family have the resources they need to succeed.
For those who have ever wondered if they could make a difference, National Foster Parent Month is the perfect time to consider taking that first step. Opening your home—even temporarily—can change the course of a child’s life in ways that last forever.
In Geauga County, contact Allie Hulsmann at allie.hulsmann@jfs.ohio.gov or 440-285-1205.
Visit geaugacountyfoster.com to learn more.
Through Geauga County Job and Family Services, local residents have the opportunity to step in and provide stability during one of the most challenging times in a child’s life. Foster parents serve as temporary caregivers for children, teens, and infants while their families work toward reunification—an outcome that remains the goal in most cases.
Foster parenting is about more than providing a place to stay. It’s about helping children heal, maintain important family connections, and build a path forward. As the agency emphasizes, a child is counting on you to Foster Their Way Home™.
Who can become a foster parent?
Many people are surprised to learn how accessible foster parenting can be. You may qualify if you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are single, married, or co-parenting
- Work full-time or part-time
- Can provide a safe, stable, and nurturing home
- Are in good physical and mental health
- Have adequate space and financial stability
- 24 hours of preservice training
- CPR and first aid certification
- Background checks for all adult household members
- A home study, including interviews and safety inspections
- Personal references and a medical statement
Every child in foster care has experienced some level of trauma, and each situation is unique. In Geauga County, many children are ultimately reunited with their families, making it essential for foster parents to support those relationships whenever possible.
There is a growing need for families willing to care for teens, sibling groups or children with medical or higher-level needs.
By saying “yes,” foster parents can help siblings stay together, keep children in their schools and communities, and provide consistency during uncertain times.
Making a lasting impact
Foster parenting requires compassion, patience, and flexibility—but the impact is profound. It’s a chance to be a steady, supportive presence while a child and their family work toward a better future.
Just as important, foster parents are not alone. Building a strong support network and working closely with local agencies helps ensure both the child and the foster family have the resources they need to succeed.
For those who have ever wondered if they could make a difference, National Foster Parent Month is the perfect time to consider taking that first step. Opening your home—even temporarily—can change the course of a child’s life in ways that last forever.
In Geauga County, contact Allie Hulsmann at allie.hulsmann@jfs.ohio.gov or 440-285-1205.
Visit geaugacountyfoster.com to learn more.
Foster the Future 5K/1 Mile Walk
Geauga County Job and Family Services is hosting a Foster the Future 5K/1 Mile Walk on May 30th at 9 a.m. during National Foster Care Month. All proceeds from the event will directly support the care and well‑being of children in Geauga County custody.
Geauga County Job and Family Services is hosting a Foster the Future 5K/1 Mile Walk on May 30th at 9 a.m. during National Foster Care Month. All proceeds from the event will directly support the care and well‑being of children in Geauga County custody.
Register by May 18 to guarantee a Foster the Future 5K shirt!
https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Burton/FosterTheFuture5KGCJFS