Peer support for new foster parents: A case study of the Kentucky Foster Parent Mentoring Program

Mentoring of new foster parents aids in retention which is critical to reducing transitions for foster youth. Despite adaptable models for foster parent mentoring programs, and the documented efficacy in increasing retention and improving engagement, mentoring programs are not universal. A case study design was used to explore the structure and role of communication to provide a foundation for implementing a foster parent mentoring program. Using program documents and interview data from mentors and mentees (n = 22) and program coordinators (n = 2), we examined how this foster parent mentoring program actually functioned in terms of contact and communication between mentors and mentees. Using media richness theory, findings include the juxtaposition of synchronous and asynchronous communication and the need for both routine and flexible contact.