Why do youth come into Youthville's foster care program?
Workers from the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) investigate reports of child abuse or neglect. The SRS workers either find the report to be groundless and refer the family to a family preservation program, or the worker forwards his or her findings to the district attorney's office. If the findings are serious enough, the district attorney's office asks the court to declare the child to be a child in need of care (CINC). If the judge agrees, the child is placed in foster care.
Do we accept children who are not referred by SRS?
Yes. We accept youth from private contractors, parents, Juvenile Justice Authority (JJA), other states' welfare departments, and insurance companies. We also have referrals for our community based services and our out-patient chemical dependency program.
What are the children in Youthville's care like?
We care for children of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Many of our children have issues stemming from abuse and neglect, thus requiring specialized medical or mental health treatment. We care for children who excel in most aspects of life and those who struggle at times. Some of our children may require additional educational support, while others excel in school. We also have children in our care who have earned scholarships and are preparing for college.
When do children in foster care become available for adoption?
There is not a set time limit. However, Youthville strives to make sure that children have a permanent solution to their situation within six months of their referral. In many cases, children are reunited with their birth families, but when this is not possible, children are typically available for adoption.
How do I become an adoptive parent?
Youthville prepares families to become adoptive parents through a team of professionals working together in our foster care program and the adoption unit. Many families choose to become foster-to-adopt parents. These families are foster parents first, and then move through the adoption process. In this case, please refer to the question below to learn more. Families not wishing to foster prior to adopting can call the adoption unit directly at 316.529-9321.
How do I become a foster parent?
If you're interested in becoming a foster parent, the first step is to contact us at 800.593.1950, ext. 194. We will provide you with written information, answer any questions, and can make a visit to your home, if necessary. In the Wichita area, you can attend a free monthly informational meeting where you'll learn more about what you can expect if you decide to become a foster parent.This informational meeting is the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
There is training required for prospective foster parents to obtain their license. This 10-week, free training course is called Partnering for Safety and Permanence-Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (or PS-MAPP). The goal of the training is to help prepare you as a foster parent, and help you decide if being a foster parent is for you. Once you have completed PS-MAPP, our staff will assist you with the licensing requirements as a foster family.
(Foster parents must be 21 years or older, single or married, in good general physical and mental health, financially able to provide for their own families, own or rent a house or apartment that can meet licensing requirements, and be able to pass KBI/CANIS background checks.)
How do I access services to have a child admitted to a program?
Youthville offers a variety of programs, services, and treatment options to boys and girls ages 10-18. For information regarding residential placements, contact the Intake Admissions Coordinator at 800.332.7491, ext. 237 or 316.283.1950, ext. 237. For information regarding Community Based Services in the Dodge City Area call 620.225.0276 or in the Wichita Area call 316.529.9100, ext. 8419. For information regarding Foster Home Services call 316.529.9100, ext. 8328.
What percent of our annual operating budget comes from the State of Kansas?
64.82 percent as of June 30, 2009.
What percent of our annual expenses go toward administrative costs?
11.45 percent in the 2009 fiscal year.
What is the percentage of income generated from donations?
The income generated is about 3 percent of our annual budget. This includes income from the United Methodist Conferences, local churches, and other groups or individuals.
How do I file a complaint, grievance, or appeal with Youthville?
Youthville works to provide superior customer service to all clients and your opinion is important to us. If you would like to file a complaint, grievance, or appeal please call 800.593.1950, ext. 350 or e-mail us.
What can I do to help?
There are many ways you can help children and families in need. We recognize community members have varied schedules and resources, which is why we have opportunities available for everyone.
For those who would like a significant commitment, consider becoming a foster parent by calling 800.593.1950, ext. 194.
Others may consider donating funds or supplies. To make a donation to Youthville, please contact the Development department at 800.593.1950, ext. 8234.
We also have plenty of volunteer opportunities available for individuals or groups. To become a volunteer, please call 800.593.1950, ext. 8164 to learn about the various volunteer opportunities.
You may also view our current job openings here.
How do I share a suggestion or comment about helping improve the programs and services Youthville offers?
If I have a positive experience or success story about working with Youthville, how do I communicate this?