IMPACT Orientation

The 877-210-KIDS inquiry line is the point of entry for all interested resource families. Inquirers are sent an information packet and then invited to attend a local county orientation. 

DFCS utilizes a scripted 2-hour IMPACT orientation. The orientation is designed to provide fundamental information to help potential resource families decide whether to pursue the foster care or adoption experience. 

At the conclusion of the orientation, prospective parents are given a packet contacting a Welcome Letter from Governor Perdue,  Letter of Intent, Resource Family Checklist  and additional county specific literature and information.

Facts About Foster Care and Adoption
Adobe Acrobat format, 56 KB

Governor's Welcome Letter
Adobe Acrobat format, 36 KB 

IMPACT Orientation
Microsoft Power Point format, 1.81 MB

Letter of Intent
Adobe Acrobat format, 72 KB

Resource Family Checklist
Adobe Acrobat format, 120 KB

Information presented during the IMPACT orientation session includes the following areas:

1. The goal and purpose of foster care and adoption; the various placement options through the state: regular foster care , relative foster care, foster/adopt and adoptive.

2. The roles and responsibilities of resource families, the agency, the legal/extended family and the children in placement, and the interaction between and among them.

3. The agency philosophy of placement and the philosophy of cooperation and partnership with resource families.

4. HIPAA, ASFA, MEPA – IEPA and their impact upon the foster care and adoption process.

5. The importance of clear communication between the resource family, agency staff, birth families, courts, schools and other partners involved in the foster/adoption process.

6. The general requirements for parenting children in placement, including the general qualifications for the resource family; requirements for the physical facilities (home); the family assessment process, including background checks, medicals and other requirements; financial responsibility, including per diem and reimbursements for services provided; annual in-service training requirements; care of the child, including safety, physical care, transportation and child care practices.

7. Understanding the mechanics of the placement system and the procedures and processes involved; who pays for what and when.

8. The agency’s policy regarding discipline and specifications regarding the consequences of violating the discipline policy; an overview of the implications of JJ vs. Ledbetter.

9. The supports available from the agency, the community and other resource families; accessing services and resources. 

10. An overview of the various levels and types of care in the continuum of care for children.

11. Clarity regarding the purpose and function of resource families in providing foster care services and how this process is impacted by the underlying desire to adopt.

12. Post-Adopt services (refer to Adoption Manual Section 109 and 111).