Roles of Foster Parent Resource Workers

Abstract

Foster care departments are primary sources of support to foster parents within the system. Resource workers are the main points of contact for foster parents within agencies but little has been reported in the literature about their role. Foster parent resource workers within a large metropolitan area were asked “What does a foster parent resource worker do?” Results were analyzed using the concept mapping method and ten concepts resulted from the analysis including: monitor placement, facilitate communication between parties, teach communication skills, match foster homes and foster children, retain foster parents, promote teamwork, address problems with placements, support foster families, exercise authority, and ensure smooth operation.