Before You Begin: Watch Our Introduction Video

If you are interested in adoption through foster care in Illinois, we ask that you first watch this short introduction video from Dr. Susan McConnell.

In this video, Dr. McConnell explains an important first step many families do not realize: all adoptions through foster care begin with becoming a licensed foster parent. She shares what it means to foster, why foster families are urgently needed across Illinois, and how fostering can create a pathway to permanency for children when reunification is no longer possible.

This video will help you better understand:

• What it means to become a foster parent in Illinois

• Why you must choose to foster before adopting

• How children enter foster care and need safe, stable homes

• The connection between foster care and adoption

• How Let It Be Us can help guide you to the next step

You must watch the entire video before completing the form to be eligible to be referred to Illinois DCFS for licensure.