For foster families supported by Fostering Hope: 

• Foster parent retention improves. The majority of surveyed families report they would have likely stopped fostering without the support of their volunteer team.  

• Placement disruptions decrease significantly. Over 20 years, disruption rates among supported families have ranged from 10–19%, reducing the number of times children experience the loss of a home and relationships. Nationally, disruption rates are often estimated to be around 30% or higher (Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Children’s Bureau; Child Welfare Outcomes Reports).  

• Early indicators show improved outcomes for youth after foster care. While formal analysis is ongoing, early data suggests stronger school engagement and academic progress among youth leaving supported homes.  

• Adoption rates are higher when reunification is not possible. A microstudy by the Dave Thomas Foundation found that foster parents supported by Fostering Hope adopt at 2.5 times the rate of the broader fostering community—despite often caring for children with higher levels of need.  

• Home environments show signs of increased stability. Foster parents report improvements in children’s behavior and academic performance. Internal “Make a Difference” indicators also show gains in resiliency, trust, and self-worth—key markers associated with healing from trauma.