TOP 10 REASONS TO GET LICENSED WITH THE YMCA OF GREATER SEATTLE

1. INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORT

Foster parents and the children they care for receive individualized support and intervention based on the unique needs of each child (0-21). Every child that enters the YMCA foster care program is assessed to determine their needs and individual service plan. The YMCA uses a team approach to provide services. 

2. CONNECTION

Foster parents are a part of the YMCA Community of Fostering. They are connected to a peer network of experienced and new foster parents who work together with YMCA staff to support each other and the children in foster care. 

3. AFFIRMING AGENCY COMMITTED TO ANTI-RACISM

The YMCA is proud to license LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC families to meet the cultural needs of children, youth, and young adults in foster care. The YMCA proudly proclaims that Black lives matter. We cannot empower all people, especially the young, to achieve their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body until we disrupt racism, achieve equity, and justice for all, and press forward to become an anti-racist organization.

4. TRAINING

Receive support at regular YMCA trainings and connection to additional training opportunities. Work directly with our clinical team, including a veteran foster parent with over 20 years of experience providing foster care.  

5. CASE MANAGEMENT

Youth placed in licensed foster homes receive case management services directly from the YMCA in addition to coordination with the child’s state social worker. Children with more needs may receive additional supports. 

6. 24/7 CRISIS SUPPORT

The YMCA is responsive to the needs of children in foster care and foster families and provides crisis stabilization and other supports when needed. Foster parents can access crisis support services at any time they are needed. 

7. RESPITE

Foster parents need a break! YMCA foster parents receive regular monthly respite hours and can connect to a community of foster parents capable of providing respite care. 

8. THERAPEUTIC SERVICES

YMCA staff and veteran foster parents have extensive experience in supporting the systems most vulnerable and high-needs kids. Eligible children may have a YMCA therapist and/or Behavioral Specialist and receive wrap-around mental health services. 

9. EXPERTISE IN SUPPORTING TEENS

Teens in foster care experience the most barriers to finding safe and stable homes. Our staff at the Y have a passion and the necessary experience to support teens and their caregivers. 

10. FREE FAMILY MEMBERSHIP

All YMCA licensed foster parents receive a free family membership to access any King, Snohomish or Pierce YMCA branch.