Blog

Every May, National Foster Care Month reminds us of the more than 380,000 children and youth currently in foster care across the United States. It's a time to raise awareness, honor foster parents and advocates, and reflect on the needs and hopes of children who have...

When a child faces tough times, the right support can make all the difference. That’s where the South Carolina Youth Advocate Program (SCYAP) comes in. As a private nonprofit organization, SCYAP is dedicated to helping children and families all across South Carolina. With a heart for service and a mission focused on hope, SCYAP provides life-changing programs that help young people and families to heal, grow, and succeed.

Every April, communities across the United States observe National Child Abuse Prevention Month to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect, and to promote strategies for keeping children safe. This month serves as a crucial reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and nurture all children – especially those in the foster care system who have already experienced trauma.

Before Social Work Month officially ends, we wanted to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of social workers in South Carolina communities, and across the country. In case you missed our first Social Work Month blog, this year’s theme, “Social Work: Compassion + Action,” highlights the dedication, empathy, and advocacy that social workers bring to their profession. Social workers do more than provide services—they are fierce advocates for individuals, families, and communities, working to create a more just and supportive society.

Becoming a foster parent is a life-changing opportunity to provide love, stability, and care to children in need. If you have ever considered fostering a child in South Carolina, you might be wondering about the process and what it takes to qualify. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to become a foster parent in South Carolina.

When children enter foster care, they are often faced with uncertainty and change. They may be placed in new homes, adjust to different caregivers, and attend unfamiliar schools. One of the most difficult aspects of this transition is the possibility of being separated from their siblings. For many children in foster care, their siblings are their closest connection to family, providing comfort, security, and a sense of belonging. Keeping sibling groups together whenever possible is crucial for their emotional well-being, stability, and overall development.

When people hear the term “therapeutic foster care,” they sometimes assume it means something intimidating or beyond their capabilities. The truth is, therapeutic foster care is simply about providing extra support, patience, and love to children who need it most. If you’ve ever considered becoming a foster parent but have hesitated because of concerns about therapeutic care, this blog will help clear up misconceptions and show you why there’s nothing to fear.

March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize the incredible work social workers do every day. This year’s theme, “Social Work: Compassion + Action,” highlights the deep care and dedication social workers bring to their communities. But what does this theme truly mean? Let’s explore how compassion and action work together to create meaningful change.

Foster care is a life-changing journey—not just for the children in care, but for the foster parents who open their hearts and homes to them. However, many misconceptions about foster care prevent compassionate individuals from stepping forward to help. It’s helpful to separate fact from fiction and understand the truth about fostering.

Becoming a foster parent is a life-changing decision that comes with great responsibility and reward. Foster parents provide stability, love, and guidance to children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or loss. While the journey can be deeply fulfilling, it also...