Become A Foster Parent In Alexandria, VA
What a child needs most is someone to say, 'I see you.'
Start your fostering journey in Alexandria - stories of lives changed begin with a single hello.
About Alexandria
Alexandria, Virginia, is a dynamic city with a population of 160,000, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Known for its rich history and picturesque Old Town, Alexandria is a place where cobblestone streets and historic landmarks blend together with modern amenities. The city boasts a strong sense of community and a wealth of resources, making it a welcoming environment for families. With highly rated schools, walkable neighborhoods, and an abundance of parks, Alexandria has much to offer those raising children.
For foster families, Alexandria provides strong support networks and access to many services. The city’s Department of Community and Human Services works closely with organizations like CASA to support children and caregivers. Foster parents here benefit from thorough training, financial assistance, and counseling services tailored to meet their needs. The focus is not just on providing a safe place for children but also on fostering emotional growth and stability in a family environment. Consider starting your journey to becoming a foster parent here!
Alexandria’s diverse and inclusive culture makes it an especially supportive place for foster children, who often face unique challenges. The city offers numerous programs aimed at helping kids thrive, from mentoring opportunities to extracurricular activities in the arts and sports. Foster families can take advantage of the many family-friendly attractions, such as the waterfront parks, interactive exhibits at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or educational programs at the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. These experiences help foster children feel connected to their community and give families opportunities to bond.
Ultimately, Alexandria’s well-connected community, rich resources, and amazing atmosphere make it a great place for foster parents and children alike. Whether through professional support services or simply the kindness of neighbors, the city creates a network of care that ensures foster families can build happy, healthy lives together. Contact us today to get started on your path to foster parenting!
Why Choose FosterVA
FosterVA is a campaign started by Extra Special Parents (a licensed child placing agency) to raise awareness of Virginia’s need for great foster families, especially in Alexandria . Great foster parents make a difference in a youth’s ability to develop resiliency, which allows them to survive and thrive with the right support.
We have a support group that meets monthly for all foster families and respite care for yourself. Our support includes Individual clinical case managers and a crisis line manned 24/7/365. These tried and tested systems are put in place to ensure you and the child are supported during this journey as a foster parent.
Can I foster a child in Alexandria ?
Find out if you qualify to become a foster parent! Becoming a foster parent is a challenging and enriching experience for you and all family members. You can make a huge difference and change a child's life for the better, especially for sibling groups and older children in foster care programs. If you care about children and want to help them, fostering a child is an extraordinary calling.
Children in the foster care system have been through traumatic experiences. They need a loving home to help them recover and thrive. Providing a home for a child can be heartwarming and beautiful when you start to see them succeed in your care. If you have the heart and a home for a child in Alexandria , VA please contact us to learn more about our process.
Our parents come from all works of life, and your work and life experience will enhance what you bring to being a foster parent. So please never think that your life experience is unsuitable for a child in foster care, with nearly 5000 kids in the Virginia Department of social services care. We will find a child that will be great for you or your family.
Start the process today to become a Foster Parent
Family Friendly Events and Places of Interest
Carlyle House
A Georgian mansion built in 1753 by merchant and City founder John Carlyle. Five governors and General Braddock met here to discuss funding the French and Indian War. This historic meeting influenced the call for American independence in the 1770s, and sparked the concept of taxation without representation. Daily tours, youth programs, special events, exhibits, and lectures offer visitors a chance to experience eighteenth century life.
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is a historic site in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, showcasing life in the 18th century and the importance of taverns in early American society. It includes a restored tavern and adjoining hotel, both central to social and political life during the Revolutionary War and early republic.
George Washington Masonic National Memorial
A very visible tribute to George Washington stands on King Street in Alexandria, Virginia.
Huntley Meadows Park
Huntley Meadows Park is a breathtaking natural sanctuary in Fairfax County, Virginia, spanning over 1,500 acres of diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life.
Old Town
Quaint old seaport section of Alexandria on the National Register of Historic Places.
Old Town Alexandria Waterfront
The Old Town Alexandria Waterfront is a vibrant and picturesque area located along the Potomac River in Alexandria, Virginia. It's a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a mix of historic charm, scenic views, and lively attractions.
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
The Apothecary served local customers, including the Washingtons and Robert E. Lee, between 1792 and 1933. The shop was transformed into a museum shortly after its closing and visitors can still view the original ingredients, products, and documents left behind by this 141-year-old family business.
Tall Ship Providence
Step back to the 18th century and join the Continental Navy! Our new interactive dockside tour, guided by a Continental sailor, will take you aboard Tall Ship Providence to fight with Captain John Paul Jones in the American Revolution.
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Art in Person and in Progress. Located in Old Town Alexandria, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is home to 150+ working artists, 7 galleries, The Art League, and the Alexandria Archaeology Museum.
Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House
Woodlawn Estate and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Pope-Leighey House are two iconic architectural sites of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, located on the same property in historic Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington D.C. Our Federal Georgian Mansion, built in 1805 for Nelly Parke Custis Lewis and Lawrence Lewis and our Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian House, built in 1940 and moved to our property in the 60's both sit in a beautiful landscape. Visitors are encouraged to explore the contrasting architectural and historical stories of these two masterpiece homes, set in glorious landscape. Our site is also home to the non-profit farm, Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture.
