foster care services
because every teen deserves a team
Right now, 4,229 youth in our community are waiting for a foster caregiver.
Friends of Youth provides therapeutic foster care for youth ages 11–17 who have experienced significant loss, trauma, and instability, and who will benefit from a stable, nurturing home where they can heal and thrive — surrounded by consistent care, structure, and a team dedicated to their success. It's the same team-based approach behind everything we do: foster care is one part of how we help children, youth, young adults, and families build stability.
change a life.
become a foster caregiver.
Some teenagers have moved so many times, they've stopped believing any place will ever feel like home.
At Friends of Youth, we believe one caring adult — backed by one dedicated team — can begin to change that story. Foster care isn't always easy, but you're never doing it alone. Friends of Youth welcomes individuals and couples from all backgrounds, especially BIPOC and LGTBQIA+ community members, who are willing to learn and grow into the role.
The need for therapeutic foster caregivers continues to grow across our community.
Every time a well-prepared caregiver says "yes," a young person has another opportunity to experience stability, connection, and hope. That's why we're committed to preparing and supporting every family before a youth ever moves into their home.
"I was a former foster parent for Friends of Youth several years ago and worked with teen girls. Very rewarding experience for me and life changing for the youth. I still have contact with most of my kids and two of them are now my daughters. Thank you for that!"
why foster with us?
When you foster with us, you're not just opening your home — you're gaining a Friends of Youth team.
Not every program is built to offer this level of support. Friends of Youth has spent 75 years serving families right here in east King County, and we've built a full clinical and case management structure around every placement — not as an add-on, but as the standard. From day one you will have a coordinated team including a dedicated therapeutic case manager who knows your family, direct access to therapists, and a team that meets regularly to plan alongside you.
You'll receive:
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A responsive, relationship-based team that truly knows you and the youth
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A dedicated therapeutic case manager, with weekly support and regular home visits
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Access to therapists and clinical support
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Regular child and family team meetings
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Educational and medical meetings to guide care and planning
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Respite care options, so you can take breaks when needed
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Ongoing training and real-time coaching
Two ways to support youth: care for a youth in your own home in the community or in an agency owned home — either way, you're backed by the same full team.
You are never expected to navigate challenges alone. Support isn't a bonus here — it's built in.
who can foster?
You don't have to be perfect — you just have to care.
We welcome:
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Individuals, couples, including BIPOC and LGTBQIA+
Renters or homeowners -
People from all backgrounds, cultures, and identities
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First-time or experienced caregivers
You don't need to be perfect — just present.
who are the youth we serve?
Right now, 4,229 youth in our community are waiting for a foster caregiver.
The youth in our program are:
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Ages 11–17
Referred to Friends of Youth by government agencies, following family disruption -
Experiencing loss and trauma responses, mental health diagnoses, or significant emotional and behavioral challenges
They may need support:
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Learning to regulate emotions
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Building social skills and trust
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Developing healthy relationships
We prepare and support you for this, every step of the way.
not sure if you're ready? start small.
You don't have to commit right away.
Volunteer with or sponsor an event for foster care families.
Try respite care:
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Provide short-term care
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Support another foster family
Many of our foster parents begin this way.
let's talk
Learn more about foster caregiving — no pressure, just a conversation. We're here to help you explore whether fostering is right for you.
email fostercare@friendsofyouth.org or call 425.971.0085.
frequently asked questions
community resources
Comprehensive Washington state DCYF services information.
Supports all current foster parents and kinship caregivers by providing peer mentors available at any point in a caregiver’s journey. You can also read about caregiver trends and themes and learn how the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) and Alliance CaRES partner to support caregivers.
Mentors reach out to caregivers at key points:
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When a foster parent welcomes their first placement.
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When a relative or family friend is placed with a kinship caregiver.
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When a foster parent or kinship caregiver reaches out.
The program also offers:
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Online and local support groups, events, and ongoing learning opportunities.
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Supportive and helpful resources, including choosing the right training.