This page is a map of our AlbanyKids.com site and will help you quickly find the page you are looking for. Click on any of the underlined words to visit that page or site. On the regular pages of this site, you can use the navigation buttons on the left side to surf about. If you click off our site (like to the County or State sites), use the back browser button on your web browser to return to us.

Opening Page -- This is the entry point when you click on AlbanyKids.com. The color photo shows the magical moment when a foster parent opens the door to her house (and her heart) for a young child.

Home Page -- The front of our “reception area”, showing areas of interest that you might find interesting. Or you can always click on the “Next Page” button at the bottom of each page.

What Is Foster Parenting? --A brief description of what it’s all about.

Why Become A Foster Parent? --Numerous benefits and reasons, leading to the following four pages:

    Share Your Blessings -- Appeals to the charitable feelings that are common in our families.

    Foster-Adoption — A Wonderful Way To Build A Family -- For all, and especially for those who     don’t want to pursue other adoption options.

    Empty Nest? -- Aimed at middle-aged parents who raised kids and now have empty spaces     (physical and emotional)

    Singles and Partners -- We welcome single parents, gays and lesbians. If you're qualified and     you've got the energy, time and concern for kids, you can be a foster parent.

Who Could Be A Great Foster Parent? You! -- We appreciate your help; this page shows you what you can do.

Site Map and Links -- That’s this page. Plain English map with one-line descriptions, including links off site.

Other Sites --
You are now at AlbanyKids.com, the gateway to learning how to become a foster family. You can also find valuable information at our sister sites hosted by Albany County and New York State. If you visit there and wish to come back here, either use your browsers back-button, or type in AlbanyKids.com in your web address window.

Albany County Dept for Children, Youth and Families

http://www.albanycounty.com/CYF/
This site brings you to our county site where you can learn much more about our programs and services.

New York State Office of Children and Family Services

There are four pages you'll be especially interested in:

Foster & Adoption Overview and Basics
http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/fostercare/overview.asp

Requirements, Training, and Financial Support
http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/fostercare/requirements.asp

Living With A Foster Child
http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/fostercare/living.asp

Resources and Additional Links
http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/fostercare/resources.asp