When needed, DFCS uses volunteers to implement and support its programs for children and families. Volunteers provide invaluable services to families and children in their communities and can provide a consistent level of support to assist you in enriching the life of the child placed in your care.

Some ways that volunteers can be helpful include: 

• Providing respite care for foster parents by supervising the child one afternoon a week 
• Providing tutoring and/or mentoring to the child where areas of need have been identified 
• Paying various fees related to recreational and/or other extracurricular activities
• Donating computers and/or other supplies necessary to enhance the child’s learning

Foster parents may be aware of individuals or organizations willing to share their time, talents, and/or financial resources with a child in need.

• Always inform your case manager when you become aware of a volunteer willing to work with the child in your care 
• Never allow a volunteer to take the child away from your home without the written permission from the agency. DFCS is required to obtain the appropriate clearance (including a criminal record and CPS check) for all volunteers who come in direct contact with children in placement 
• For a child who is appropriately able to express an opinion, consider his or her feelings regarding interacting with a volunteer

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