Become a Foster Parent

Youthnet is a no-fee agency committed to building a welcoming and inclusive environment for all children, youth, and families we serve. We honor and respect diversity in all its forms, embracing families regardless of marital status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression (SOGIE), home ownership, income, or education.

We believe that every child deserves caregivers who meet them where they are, addressing their unique needs related to race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, trauma history, behaviors, medical conditions, mental health, and education. To support this, Youthnet provides caregivers with comprehensive resources, training, and support throughout the process—from preparation and licensing to ongoing care—ensuring every child feels valued, understood, and empowered.

Talk to us today!

After completing an inquiry, the Recruitment Specialist will reach out to you to discuss the licensing process and give you the opportunity to ask questions specific to your family before attending our Orientation.

Attend an orientation

Want to learn more about becoming a Foster Caregiver but want to see what it entails? Join our monthly Orientation by signing up for one of our virtual Zoom meetings.

Licensing Process

Licensing Process

Complete Inquiry
Connect with us to learn more about fostering with Youthnet and ask questions by completing the Foster Inquiry. This is an optional step, but it can be helpful to talk with our Recruitment Specialist (360-420-2206) about your family’s specific circumstances before you sign up for our Orientation.
Attend Orientation
Learn more about Youthnet’s values and support for families as well as the licensing process. Attending the Orientation is an important step for you to determine if Youthnet is the best fit for your family. We encourage families to attend information sessions through DCYF and/or other CPAs because we want families to feel confident in choosing Youthnet and the services we provide. Please register here: Youthnet Caregiver Orientation
Initial Requirements
Family works with Recruitment Specialist on their initial paperwork, such as Youthnet Application, CCT and other trainings, medical report, etc. It is recommended to review the WACs and discuss any potential barriers to licensure.
Home Study Paperwork
Once the initial requirements are complete, family is transferred to Licensing Supervisor to complete the remaining paperwork in the state database, WA CAP. Paperwork will include, but not limited to: Background check, TB screening, flu/Tdap/Dtap document (if licensing ages 0-2), references, income verification, mental health report (if applicable), auto insurance, etc. There will also be a virtual home tour to discuss any questions.
Interviews
Once the paperwork is completed, the family will be assigned a licensor for the home study, which is a written assessment of the family. All household members are interviewed, including children. The following interviews are typically scheduled every 1-2 weeks.
• Initial (in-person)
• Individuals (virtual)
• Caregiving (virtual)
• Additional interviews as needed
Home Inspection
Licensor will tour the home with a Home Inspection Checklist . The family will have ample time to prepare for this and they are provided the checklist well in advance. If there are further items to address, the family will have the opportunity to do so after the inspection. The home must meet WAC requirements.
Regional Licensing Review
Youthnet can finalize the family's home study report once all requirements are met and all assessment areas are fully explored. The family will have the opportunity to review the home study and provide factual feedback. The licensor will then submit the family’s licensing packet (home study and supporting documents) to the Regional Licensor (RL), who is a state employee. The RL provides feedback and the licensor may follow-up with the family with further questions.
License Approval
RL can take several weeks to review licensing packets. Once all feedback is addressed and there are no concerns, the RL will issue the license. This allows the family to begin accepting placement of children in care.