If you’ve thought about fostering children or teens but don’t feel like it’s on the near horizon, you may think there’s not much you can do to help. Actually, there are plenty of ways you can help even if you’re not ready to foster. Here are four ways to help children in need in your community that you may not have realized.

1. Offer Your Skills

Foster and adoption agencies are always in need of people who possess skills relevant to an area they’re short-staffed in. For example, photography is one area that’s in demand across the country as agencies are always in need of high quality photos and videos of children awaiting adoption. The Heart Gallery of America is a great place to find need in your area. Of course, demand isn’t limited to just photography.  Are you a safe driver? Are you a good writer? Have experience with fundraisers? All you have to do is reach out to us or your local foster care agency and ask if you can help.

2. Mentor

You have the power to make a huge difference in the life of a child by mentoring. This could involve helping a child in school, teaching athletics or giving music lessons. Several organizations can help you get started, like Foster to Success and Big Brothers Big Sisters. If you’re in Kentucky, you can always reach out and tell us how you’d like to help children in need.

3. Give What You Can

There are tons of ways to give to children in need – the trick is finding the method that works best for you. If you have a stockpile of goods on your hands after finally cleaning out your closet, consider giving relevant items to children in need. Unopened toiletry items, clothes, toys, school supplies and so much more are always gladly received by your local child welfare agency. You can also consider monetary donations, giving tickets to a special event, providing gift certificates and more. We welcome Kentucky residents to donate what they can!

4. Provide Respite Care

This is the perfect option for people who have completed the same training as foster parents but don’t currently foster – think of it as a “part-time foster parent.” Every foster parent needs a break at some point, and respite care providers make this possible. Respite care providers look after children for a few days while their foster parents take a short break. This helps foster parents recharge and continue to do the best job possible. Contact KVC Kentucky to make this happen!

Anyone can help children in need, even if they’re not ready to become a foster parent. We encourage you to your local Kentucky foster care agency to find out ways you can help today.