Foster Parent Retention & Stability

Many foster parents enter the journey with compassion and commitment, but quickly discover the role is more complex than they imagined. The emotional strain and constant uncertainty can leave caregivers wondering, “Am I really equipped for this?”

Through ongoing training, caregivers begin to see foster care through a new lens. One training we offered this year, Exploring Birth Family Connections, reframes one of the most challenging aspects of the role. As one participant shared, “I think this training helps give vision in how and why to bravely and wisely step into a challenging piece of foster care.” That “challenging piece” is supporting connections with birth families, and we know training can make this aspect less overwhelming and more meaningful.

Other powerful moments are seen through opportunities like You Matter Too - Lunch and Learn. These sessions emphasize that caregiver well-being is essential, not optional. One attendee reflected, “I feel I can use it and recommend this to other kinship providers.”

The impact of these trainings is clear in participant feedback:
· “Thank you! The website tool is amazing.”
· “Thank you, I am familiar with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but today you helped me understand them.”

Retention in foster care isn’t just about asking families to continue; it’s about equipping them to do so. In addition to our Advanced Trainings, we also offer the Hope for the Journey Conference, a one-day training focused on attachment, behaviors, and practical help. 

New foster parents can also be matched with an experienced foster family through our Foster Parent Mentor program.

Foster caregivers stay not because the work becomes easy, but because they feel supported, prepared, and valued. Project 1.27 is committed to meeting the needs of Foster/Adopt and Kinship homes by offering ongoing training opportunities and connections that encourage, inspire, and strengthen caregivers.

By Lisa Marr, Family Connections Manager