Nathan and Amber

Amber and Nathan became certified to foster children in 2019, expecting to open their home to kids who needed love, support, and a safe place to live. What they weren't expecting was the mentorship they would offer to parents who hoped to reunify with their children someday.

The couple's first foster was a baby girl who lived with them for about six months before she reunified with her mother. Outside of Child Protective Services, the mother lacked the support she needed to reunify with her daughter.

"Still to this day, we babysit when mom works," Amber said. "They come to family and holiday gatherings with us. We are like an extended family for them. It's good for the kids too — they don't have to lose out on those they love. I guess the overall experience was just learning that foster care isn't just about caring for and supporting the children, it's about supporting the parents or family members as well."

"Honestly, the bond was pretty immediate," she said. "It actually comes a lot easier than you expect it to." Since then, Amber and Nathan have fostered a brother and sister; the boy, who was one year old when he first came to them, is still in their care. Coming to the end of their two-year license, they fully intend to recertify.

Q & A

How long have you been working with the foster program?

Two years.

How many children have you fostered?

Three children, including one infant and one sibling pair.

Why did you become a foster parent?

Adoption is something I've always been interested in since I was a teenager. It worked out that the timing seemed right. We have the home for it, we have the ability and space — so why would we not open our home to those that need it?

What is the most rewarding part of fostering?

Seeing the positive changes, not only in the kids but in their family as a whole.

What is the most challenging?

Always be prepared for the unexpected. Things change from day to day. Each case is different and they're always evolving depending on how the kids and parents are doing.

What is it like to welcome a new member to your family?

It can come with challenges because the kids don't know you or whether they can trust you, so it takes time to build that trust. It's easier than you expect it to be to love on them.

What advice would you give to someone considering fostering?

Do your research and make sure you are emotionally prepared for everything that comes along. Being supportive of them when they're upset — to see your kids heartbroken is heartbreaking, and you learn to be a positive support despite the heartache.

How has fostering changed your life?

We are definitely on our toes a lot more. We didn't have kids before, so life is more adventurous on a daily basis.