Program March 28th: Lisa Millyard from the Department of Human Services who spoke on the Foster Parent Program

Here is a synopsis of her presentation: Lisa’s mission is to get out in the community and educate people on what it’s like to become a foster parent. The department gets a lot of calls from people inquiring as to what is involved. Interested parties first meet with a department representative and participate in a formal “orientation” that is about an hour and a half in length. During this time prospective “parents” are informed of the department’s policies with regard to the program. If the parties show additional interest, they are required to complete a formal application and background checks are conducted. The entire licensing process could be as long as 6 months. Those who are accepted into the program then participate in a 12 hour training program and learn, among other things, how to handle discipline with their child, how to interact with the agency, etc. Lisa said that foster parenting is not for everyone. The department services many children. Currently there are 105 children in the system who have on-going court cases. The children, she said, are covered by insurance provided by the state. Stipends are offered as well. Lisa emphasized that foster parenting is a great way to get a foot in the door if you are thinking about eventually adopting children. Lisa encouraged anyone interested in knowing more about the program to call the Lenawee County Department of Human Services office.