Many foster parents find great fulfillment in opening their home to Lighthouse Foster children. The opportunity to include the children in an active and healthy family is very rewarding. They enjoy making a difference in the lives of these kids whether on a short or long term basis.

Veteran Lighthouse Foster parent Joe M. when asked what keeps him around for over 15 years comments, "If I don't take in these boys who will? It is the small changes in behavior in the boys that we see over time that makes foster parenting so rewarding."

In addition to the altruistic rewards of being a foster parent, there are some practical benefits that assist in the day-to-day challenges of rearing children. Some of these include:

• Tax Free Daily Per Diem (reimbursement paid monthly for basic room and board)
• Clothing Vouchers
• Mileage Reimbursement

The Lighthouse Foster Care program makes great effort in offering fun and exciting activities to the foster children. These include skating parties, golf outings, trips to Kings Island and many more. Also, the program staff assigns youth workers who act as "Big Brother and Big Sisters" to the children. This one-on-one time is very special to both the worker and the foster child.

One of the unique features of the program is the strong support staff that each foster parent receives. A team leader, and Lighthouse social worker is matched with each parent. It is always a team approach, which encourages cooperation and creative problem solving.