A Nod to the Everyday Heroes who Serve Children
Every July, we pause to celebrate National Make a Difference to Children Month, a time to recognize the countless individuals who dedicate their lives to uplifting, educating, supporting, and protecting our youth. From classrooms to clinics, sports fields to counseling rooms, youth thrive because of the dedication and compassion of professionals like teachers, nurses, mental health counselors, social workers, child advocates, coaches, and mentors.
These everyday heroes show up with patience, creativity, and resilience, meeting children and youth where they are and helping them reach their fullest potential. Their positive impact often lasts a lifetime.
If you are one of these professionals or someone inspired by their work, you may already possess the empathy, stability, and commitment essential to making a more profound difference. Becoming a foster parent is one powerful way to expand your positive impact and help your community thrive.
Foster parents provide temporary, safe, and supportive homes to children and youth who are navigating incredibly challenging circumstances. Many youth simply need stability, guidance, and love to begin healing and growing. Teachers, nurses, therapists, and coaches already have the skills and determination to foster.
National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) is here to support you every step of the way. NYAP has served children, youth, and families for over 40 years. We offer comprehensive training, 24/7 support, and a community of professionals committed to creating brighter futures for the children, youth, and families we serve.
Whether you’re single, married, have children of your own, or not, you can help. As a foster parent through NYAP, you can:
Help children reunify safely with their families of origin
Support teens transitioning into adulthood
Mentor teen parents while they care for their child
Offer temporary, nurturing care during times of crisis
Provide a kinship home to youth you already know who need a temporary foster home
If you know a child or youth who is entering foster care and want to consider opening your home, National Youth Advocate Program can help you learn more.
About Becoming a Foster Parent
About National Youth Advocate Program: Since 1978, National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) has provided culturally informed community-held services to children and youth with specialized behavioral, developmental, emotional, and physical needs. NYAP is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity that supports child, youth, and family service organizations. It has a strong reputation for delivering person-centered, strengths-based, innovative services and treatment.