Home Studies
At Indiana MENTOR, we believe that children belong in family homes with nurturing parents, family members or caregivers whenever it is possible. When a child is not able to live with his or her parents our goal is to identify a safe and healthy alternative—preferably with a close relative, loved one or other member of the child’s circle of support.
Our professional staff conducts comprehensive home studies to ensure that children live in caring homes that allow for structured supervision, support, and skill development.
Creating Safe, Nurturing Environments
Our skilled staff focuses on the strengths of individuals looking to provide a home for a child, empowering them to overcome any challenges they may face. We provide a rigorous review of each prospective home to make sure that the environment is safe. We also get to know the caregivers and ensure that they are in a position to care for the child and provide the guidance and support they need to learn and grow.
Each home study includes the following:
- Overview of the prospective family’s preparation
- Current structure of the family
- Family history
- Parenting styles and strengths of the caregivers
- Family’s social support resources
- Home environment and community
- Family’s financial profile
- Parental understanding of child’s history
- Verifications (background checks, references, and physicals)
- Family’s understanding of Indiana MENTOR’s role
- General assessment and recommendations
We apply this same model to our Therapeutic Foster Care homes, as well, for when a child can’t be placed with family. Contact us for more information about Indiana MENTOR’s Home Studies services.