[waitinginaz]

Hello everyone! I have recently made the decision to start the process of becoming a foster parent. Ideally I would like to do fost-adopt but right now I concentrating on first being certified to become a foster parent. I am 24 yrs old, single(but marrying soon), work full-time but own my own business so I work from home part of the time.

What do you think my chances of a placement are? And any advice on where I should go? This is all so new and exciting for me I'd appreciate any guidance I can get!!


Thanks!

[CaddoRose]

I can tell you some info from Texas:

You should look into the local CPS and go to an informational meeting. You can also contact agencies and go to their meetings as well. Just get out there and attend a meeting. You'll probably have many of your questions answered there and then you can decide which way to go.

Single shouldn't be a problem. The laws are different from state to state, but most want don't want to place a child if you are newly married because you need time to adjust to your new life.

[xxsurroundedbyxy]

Most states require that if married, you must be married for at least 2 years. Perhaps it will make a difference if you are licensed before you get married as a single woman. Not sure. You will need to call your local DHS and ask for an informational packet or attend an Inquiry Meeting.
Kim

[waitinginaz]

Thanks! I am attending the 1st orientation I can get to. Which is either next monday or on the 12th of July! I am very excited about all of this!

[erkirby]

I think I just read recently that you have to be married for 1 year in order to foster or adopt in AZ.

[AZInsider]

Originally Posted by erkirby

I think I just read recently that you have to be married for 1 year in order to foster or adopt in AZ.

Not by law, but that is the policy of some agencies. State law has no requirements about marriage period - you can be single, you can be married 1 day, you can be married 25 years, doesn't matter. But some agencies will only work with married couples, some want you to be married at least 1 year, etc.

The only state requirement based on marital status is that if you are legally married (not yet divorced, etc.) then BOTH individuals must go through the training and be on the license. Most agencies will ask that both individuals attend if you aren't married yet but in certain situations they can waive that as long as you aren't legally married.