Adoption and Fostercare
Foster Care Services
Children need stable loving homes where they feel safe, nurtured and cherished. The philosophy of CSI’s foster care service is driven by a focus on therapeutic care that identifies each child’s strengths and challenges. CSI directly assists foster parents in building the child’s strengths and in addressing challenges.
As a foster parent,
You can make a significant difference in a child’s life.
You can form life-long relationships with those you help.
You can learn new things about yourself.
You can improve your parenting skills.
Your life will be changed FOREVER.
Creating a stable, loving and nurturing home for a foster child requires a strong desire to become a foster parent and to be influential in the life of a hurting child. CSI’s foster parents are single or married; working, staying at home, or attending school; male or female; with biological children of their own or without.
To be a CSI foster parent you must be:
- At least 21 years of age
- A resident of Douglas or Sarpy County
- Able to satisfy additional licensing requirements established by the State of Nebraska
Foster parent responsibilities:
- Attend the required foster training sessions
- Provide a safe, secure and nurturing environment
- Agree to be the primary providers and teachers for the foster children in their care
- Provide housing, transportation, clothing, recreational activities and medical care for their foster child
- Serve as a member of the child’s treatment team
- Assist the child in setting and accomplishing goals
- Participate in support groups and home visits
- Keep notes and records documenting the child’s care and progress
Steps to becoming a foster parent
- Call CSI to request an information packet.
- Make the decision to open your heart and home to a special child. Contact CSI’s Therapeutic Foster Care Coordinator to set up an informational meeting.
- Receive approval from CSI, after the Home Study and all Background Checks are completed.
- Complete 36 hours of Pre-Service Training. These sessions are typically held on evenings and Saturdays.
- Obtain a license as a foster care provider for the State of Nebraska and Child Saving Institute.
You will be contacted as soon as an appropriate match is discovered. Throughout this process, CSI’s staff will offer support, advice and encouragement. Once a child is placed in your home, your foster care specialist will work closely with you to make the placement a success. Please contact CSI at (402) 553-6000 or toll free at (866) 400-4274 for more information.
