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Originally Posted By Arlie

I live in Chicago. I'm a 38-yo man and have finally, after dreaming about parenthood for most of my life, decided to become licensed as a foster parent and perhaps eventually adopt. The only prior related experience was being a big brother to a 12-year-old boy when I was 24. That was very successful for both of us and we're still close after thirteen years. However, actually fostering a child is a whole nother ball game, I'm sure.

Are there other single foster or adoptive parents out there? In particular, single men? I'm thrilled about this and have been reading and talking to friends and professionals and clergy and my parents, etc. However, I'm sometimes terrified, as well. I wonder if I have what it takes. It will change my life in such a monumental way that I don't know how to predict whether I'll be up to the challenge.

My e-mail is asims@wppost.depaul.edu. If you are a single foster or adoptive parent who has taken a waiting child (not an infant) into your home, especially if you are a man, I'd love to hear from you.

Arlie in Chicago

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Originally Posted By Kim

I am encourged by your decision to be a foster parent even though you are a single person. I am a single mom of two and have always wanted to be a foster parent. My dream is to buy a large house and foster abused children full-time. For now, I will be happy with one child. I am starting my classes in October and hope to have a child before Christmas, which would be great for the holidays.

As a single person, do you have any advise for me in regards to the special needs of the children that will be coming into my life?