Welcome

As a licensed Resource Family Agency (Foster Family Agency) (RFA License #370603102), Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) believes all youth (the period between childhood and adult age) belong in families. We strive to find Resource Families for youth with special needs in San Diego who are unable to remain with their family of origin. Youth thrive when they feel safe, secure and loved. It is our goal to recruit Resource Families who can offer these comforts that should be afforded to all youth. We have youth waiting for a caring home. These youth have a variety of needs, but all require families concerned with their overall well being. Some placements are temporary, while others could lead to adoption and family for life.

Potential Resource Families attend a TMI Resource Parent Orientation and Training to determine if our program would be a good fit for you and your family, as well as best meet the needs of the youth we serve. Once you are accepted as a TMI Resource Family and a match is made with a youth, Resource Families receive the following:

• Competitive monthly financial and respite stipends

• Comprehensive orientation and extensive ongoing training to fulfill annual training requirements

• Pro-Act certification

• Resource Parent support group meetings

• 24/7 emergency support

• Facilitation of shared parenting relationships and communication between parents of origin and Resource Parents

• Master level social work support

• Assistance at medical and psychiatric appointments

• Behavioral support provided by a licensed clinician (when appropriate)

• The satisfaction of being a positive influence on a youth in need of care, love and a sense of belonging