How to Know When You Are Ready to be a Resource Parent

Raising a child is one of life’s most fulfilling actions and being a resource parent is no different. It takes a strong will, determination, and means to be a successful resource parent, but the impact you can have on a child’s life is priceless.

A report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that in 2013, the number of children in the Resource Family system was over 400,000 on any given day. That number has been steadily rising to over 440,000 children in the system on any day in 2017. 

With so many children in the system needing a resource family, many children are oftentimes overlooked. If you are considering becoming a resource parent, here are some ways to know if you are ready to support a child in need.

You have a heart full of love

Time and again, children going through the Resource Family system come from unstable family backgrounds. The world needs more amazing resource parents because it takes a special person with an open heart to welcome a child in need. The reality is that children growing up through unstable living situations require special attention to the emotional or traumatic experiences they may have gone through.

When your heart is full of love – you have the power to bond and provide a meaningful childhood experience. The compassion you provide will create countless friendships and meaningful relationships. Foster children miss out on the experience of authentic love and care. Sharing compassion for a child in need can fulfill that priceless void in your home and in your heart.

You’re ready for the joy of having a child

Making the choice to become a resource parent will offer you meaning and purpose. You’re doing something to make a difference in someone’s world, and they need you specifically for the simple purpose of loving them when they need it most. The attention and care you can provide is unique and special. No one can care for a child the way you can!

Opening up your home to a child can provide the joy of passing on your experience and knowledge to the next generation. Children in the system have no doubt faced challenges they didn’t deserve to go through. By having the strength to help a child overcome this period in their life, you will experience the happiness of watching someone’s life produce amazing results from your support.

You will never be alone in raising your foster child

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child; and being a resource parent requires understanding what network is needed to support a child. Your child’s doctors, teachers, caseworkers are all there to support and help your child thrive.

The living situation of every resource parent is different, and unexpected events happen in life. In such events, you may need someone to watch over the child, provide resources to let the child succeed in school, or care for the child in a medical situation. Understanding the support network needed for your foster child is important to becoming a resource parent. You’re never in this alone. Kamali’i wants to support you along with this amazing community who love you and want what’s best for you. 

Kamali’i can help you become a resource parent starting today!

Kamali’i Resource Family Agency offers resource families the guidance, support, and training needed to raise a foster child. Kamali’i can help you create a home for children to thrive. 

It is not an easy task to be an effective resource parent, but allowing a child into your family and heart can create a world of difference for that child, and possibly be one of the most selfless and life-fulfilling acts you have ever accomplished. Kamali’i offers support groups, events, and programs to make the journey smoother, whether you are bringing a child into your home or whether they are leaving it. 

Whether you are a prospective resource parent or currently have a resource family, be sure to check the resources page for more information about what Kamali’i can provide.