StepStone Family & Youth Services is excited to share a recent episode of the Fostering Change Podcast featuring Kelsey Davis, National Director of Foster Parent Recruitment, and Stacy Brindley, National Treatment Director.
During the episode, Kelsey and Stacy examine the ongoing foster parent shortage and its far-reaching impact on children who need stability, consistency, and a sense of belonging. They discuss the factors contributing to the increasing demand for foster families and how the shortage affects outcomes for children in care.
They also talk about common misunderstandings about fostering and highlight the need for a better approach to recruiting foster parents. Kelsey and Stacy point out that recruitment messages should change to show what fostering is really like and connect more with potential families. A key part of their discussion is the need for strong support for foster parents. The episode shows that children do better when foster families have solid support, starting with recruitment and continuing through their time in care.
This episode shares helpful insights for child welfare professionals, foster parents, and community members who want to strengthen foster care and help children and families do better.
Listen to the full podcast here.