*Disclaimer: Processes are subject to change at any time. This is merely a sample template to give you a general overall, step-by-step idea of the Resource Family Requirements and Assessment Process to be able to foster a child. This process is also very similar to the Adoption process, or to become a Special Home. The process can be overwhelming, but we’re here to answer questions.

All of our families start with an inquiry of some sort. Whether it’s our website, social media, or a phone call, we’d love to hear from you! From your initial inquiry, we then schedule an Info Meeting with you. We understand that as much as this is an exciting time for your family, it can also be very daunting. At ICA, we want you to know we are here for you to walk with you through every step of the way.

Info Meeting & ICA Application

Meet & Greet

Once your application is reviewed and provisionally accepted an ICA Supervisor will schedule at time to meet with you.  This typically includes a brief, preliminary interview, a review of ICA domestic foster care/adoption programs, and a preview of next steps in the assessment process.  If you decide to move forward in the journey with ICA you will be required to: complete releases and other documents for background checks; fingerprint; and procure other required documents for the continued assessment.

Resource Family Approval (RFA) Orientation Training and Paperwork

Our Social Worker or Supervisor will schedule a time to meet with you personally to review the RFA Orientation program, the RFA Training Packet and requirements, and the environmental requirements related to your home.  Currently each RFA applicant is required to complete between 32-40 hours of training consisting of, but not limited to, live/in-person training, Zoom trainings, pre-recorded trainings, online trainings, and self-study trainings such as articles/handouts.  When training is complete, you will be asked to complete and gather other documents, related to State standards for approval.

Assessment Interviews and Home Inspection

Once training and paperwork are completed, our Social Worker or Supervisor schedules assessment interviews which may be in home, in office, and via Zoom.  These include, but are not limited to joint interviews, individual interviews, family interviews, child interviews, an initial walk-through of your home, and eventually an official Home Health and Safety Assessment.  There may be multiple follow-up Home Inspections scheduled.  Please note the number of interviews and Home Inspections may vary on a case by case basis.

RFA Assessment Completion and Review for Approval

Our Social Worker or Supervisor compiles information from all meetings, trainings, background check clearances, interviews, and paperwork provided.  The Resource Family Approval (RFA) Assessment (written report) is provided to the Supervisor or Director for review, feedback, and approval.  The Supervisor/Director will read and review the RFA Assessment and may have the Social Worker ask further questions before approval.

RFA Clearance Process and Waiting for Placement

Once our Supervisor/Director has approved the RFA Assessment, we send the RFA Assessment and required documents to the local Counties for County Clearance, before placement.  This is the waiting phase as you await first County clearance for placements and then placement/matching.  Once County Clearance is received, your ICA Team will be in contact with you regarding the specific children need placement or matching and your prayerful consideration.  Please note that the waiting timeframe varies according to: County caseloads/timeframes for clearance; the needs of the children in need of placement; your family parameters regarding children; and the County’s assessment of best fit related to matching.

Ongoing Supports and Services Including Yearly Parent Training and RFA Annual Assessment Update

ICA provides supports throughout the journey from beginning of assessment, through clearance, placement/matching, reunification or adoption finalization, and beyond.  Our Child Trauma & Learning Center offers counseling and mental health services to children/youth.  These services are subject to availability.  Please reach out to us if you are interested in this support.  We also provide parenting support during placement.  As an ICA Resource Family you will be required to complete annual post-approval training hours (15 hours annually) including trauma-informed parenting training, and other trainings that will support your family’s unique needs.  Our Social Worker/Supervisor will also complete an RFA Annual Assessment Update (as long as you are approved with ICA) that will document any changes during the year, including any placements and acknowledge the amazing growth within your family.  “Once An ICA Approved Family, Always An ICA Family.”  We are proud of the post-adoption services and ongoing contact, collaboration, and connection we nurture with our ICA Resource Families and children.

*Final notes & disclaimers: RFA approval through ICA does not guarantee child placement in your home. There is also no timeline we can give from start to placement due to each situation having its own variables and waiting periods. We will do our due diligence to continue to communicate throughout the entire process and please do not hesitate to reach out to ICA if you have questions during RFA Process.