In considering a referral, we will take some initial information by phone, and may be able to offer a preliminary indication regarding the probability of identifying an appropriate family for the child referred. We prefer to have the following information to assess the child’s needs and our capacity to meet them through existing family resources.

• Agency Application "General Information" section. (The first three pages of our application package).

• Psychological Testing Report (completed within the past two years).

• Social History (written/updated within past year) including: developmental and medical history (as known), family history including medical, significant family relationships, placement history, and other information relevant to working with the referred child. If no social history has been written, we ask that source material be provided so that a social history may be compiled.

• Educational Evaluation (including Diagnostic label, if any)

• Discharge Summaries from any previous placements.

• Current Foster Care Service Plan

Once the initial referral information is received, our Admissions Coordinator prepares a written summary of all material. The entire Clinical Staff meets weekly to review referral summaries and to determine whether or not each child is appropriate for placement. We then discuss current family options. If a family(ies) is identified as a possible match, we then schedule an interview with the child. The interview can be conducted at either of our People Places offices, or if appropriate, the Admissions Coordinator can conduct an on-site interview where the child resides. We ask permission to videotape the interview to assist in making matching decisions. The full staff reviews the videotaped interview and discusses which family offers the best match for the child. That family is contacted and shown the written summary and videotaped interview. If the family agrees to consider the child for placement, we ask for a 1-3 day pre-placement visit. If the visit is successful, placement follows shortly thereafter. If necessary, additional pre-placement visits can be arranged.

When it is clear that placement will occur, we will ask for the additional documentation (school records, birth certificate, Physical and Dental Examinations, etc.) required by child placing standards in Virginia.

The process described here traces the typical sequence of events following a referral. We strive, however, to be flexible and responsive in meeting the needs of individual children. We are able in some instances to expedite the admission process for children with no history of serious aggressive or other dangerous behaviors.

Download People Places Admissions Application (RTF format)

Other forms available online: (RTF format)

To initiate a referral to People Places, please complete the following form:

* denotes required field