Faq

Foster Mentor Program

The Foster Mentor Program connects experienced and trained volunteers with foster families to provide encouragement, guidance, and practical support. Foster mentors help strengthen foster placements by sharing their knowledge, offering a listening ear, and helping foster parents navigate challenges.
Individuals with experience in parenting, foster care, youth development, education, social work, counselling, or community service may apply to become a foster mentor. All applicants must successfully complete the selection, screening, and training process.
A foster mentor provides emotional support, practical advice, and encouragement to foster parents. They may assist with problem-solving, share parenting experiences, promote resilience, and connect foster families with available resources. Foster mentors do not replace the role of the Foster Care Coordinator or Family Guardian.
The time commitment varies depending on the needs of the foster family. Most mentors meet or communicate with their assigned foster family regularly, while maintaining flexibility to provide additional support when needed.
Yes. All foster mentors receive training before being matched with a foster family. Ongoing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities are also provided by J&IS.
Yes. Foster mentors are carefully matched with foster families based on experience, interests, availability, and the needs of the family to encourage a positive and supportive relationship.
Yes. Foster mentors serve as volunteers who are committed to supporting foster families and helping children thrive in stable, nurturing homes.
Absolutely. Foster mentors receive ongoing supervision, guidance, and support from the J&IS Foster Care Department. Regular meetings and opportunities to discuss challenges and share experiences are provided.
Depending on your availability, experience, and the needs of the programme, you may be matched with more than one foster family after consultation with J&IS.
If you are passionate about supporting foster families and making a positive difference in the life of a child, we invite you to apply. Please contact the J&IS office by calling +1 (721) 542-3449, sending an email to [email protected], or completing the contact form on our website and we will assist you. Your experience, encouragement, and guidance can help foster families succeed and give children the stable, supportive environment they deserve.
You are expected to:
  • Attend scheduled appointments.
  • Cooperate with your family guardian.
  • Follow agreements and court-ordered conditions.
  • Inform your family guardian of changes to your address, telephone number, or family situation.
  • Participate in recommended services or programmes.
  • Act in the best interests of your child.
If you fail to cooperate, the Family Guardianship Department may report this to the Court or other competent authority. The Court may consider this when making decisions regarding the supervision or protection of your child.
No. The Family Guardianship Department cannot independently remove a child from the home. Any decision regarding the placement of a child is made by the competent judicial authority, such as the Court of Guardianship and the Court, in accordance with the law.
Yes. Your family guardian can provide guidance and refer you to appropriate services, such as parenting support, counselling, mental health services, addiction treatment, educational support, or other community resources that may benefit your family.
You can contact your family guardian during office hours by telephone or email. If you do not know who your assigned family guardian is, please contact the J&IS office by calling +1 (721) 542-3449, sending an email to [email protected], or completing the contact form on our website and we will assist you.