Orientation for new foster and adoptive families
Thank you for taking this important step to support children in our state who are currently living in foster care—your dedication makes a difference.
Orientation is the first step to becoming a foster or adoptive parent in Alaska.
The orientation will:
- Explain the mission and function of the Office of Children’s Services (OCS)
- Define the term “resource family”
- Outline the steps to become licensed
- Review the application process
- Clarify available supports
Explore your options to complete orientation.
What is a resource family?
A resource family is a loving and supportive family—whether related or not—who opens their home to care for children and teens through foster care, adoption, or kinship care.
They’re everyday people making an extraordinary difference by offering stability, safety, and connection when it’s needed most.
Online orientation
About online orientation
Complete your orientation on your own schedule. Online orientation takes around 45 minutes to complete.
Watch the two orientation videos (part one and part two) then fill out and submit the resource family web-based orientation online form below.
Orientation part one
Orientation part two
Live virtual orientation
Join us for a video or phone presentation about becoming a foster parent. OCS licensing staff will be available to answer questions during this live orientation. View upcoming orientation dates on our training calendar.
Relative caregiver orientation
A live virtual orientation designed just for relative caregivers. Join to learn about special considerations for relatives caring for a child or youth. View upcoming orientation dates on our training calendar.
