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

1. INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORT

Foster parents receive individualized support and intervention based on the unique needs of the family and each child (0-21) placed in the home. The YMCA uses a team approach to provide services and works closely with the youth’s DCYF social worker, natural supports, and other providers. 

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 from your Y licensor to complete all initial trainings and those required for renewing your license. Work closely with a Y staff member dedicated to foster parent education and development to receive specialized recommendations to increase your skills. Attend the Y’s monthly Foster Parent Support Group to learn from fellow foster parents and the group’s moderator who is a veteran foster parent with over 20 plus years of experience.  

5. CASE MANAGEMENT

Y families who have a youth placed in the home long-term will receive case management services directly from the YMCA in addition to coordination with the youth’s state social worker. Children with more needs may receive additional supports depending on eligibility.  

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 case aide support 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.