Foster Care Hub
We're your Starting Point.
Has foster care been on your mind, but you’re unsure where to begin?
Becoming a kinship, foster, or adoptive parent is a significant and meaningful commitment—one that offers the opportunity to make a lasting difference. We know this decision requires careful thought and preparation, and we are committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make the best choice for you and your family.
Most importantly, you are not alone on this journey. From your initial inquiry and beyond, we will be here for you every step of the way. Our goal is to ensure you feel supported, informed, and confident as you open your home and heart to a child in need.
Ready for more info?…..We’d love to see you at an upcoming Foster and Adoption Information Session via Zoom. No pressure, just information. Sign up for the session that is best for you.
If you’re ready to take the first step, our team is your Starting Point.
Starting Point offers at no cost to you:
- Guidance through the journey
- Assistance connecting with an agency to complete your certification
- Connection to resources and community support
Starting Point is the local affiliate of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth.
You’ve answered the call to care for children, and that’s something extraordinary. We believe you deserve every resource and bit of support to help you provide the best care possible.
We’re your Starting Point —connecting you to resources, building community through our Courageous Hearts Cafés, and offering real, practical help along the way.
Get in touch with our team today. Please complete the form at the bottom of the page, and a member of our team will be in touch!
Resource Connection and Navigation
You know your family best. We’re here to listen, guide, and connect you with the supports that make the most sense for you. Whatever you need, we’ll help you find it.
Courageous Hearts Foster Parent Cafe
Being a foster caregiver comes with joys, challenges, and everything in between. At the cafe, you can take a break, share your story, and connect with others who understand.
Join us at a cafe today!
Complete the form at the bottom of the page to get more information about the cafes.
Foster care is stronger when the community works together. We connect with partners, support foster care organizations, and help grow and sustain the network of foster families.
Get in touch with our team today to learn more. Please complete the form at the bottom of the page, and a member of our team will be in touch!
Meet Our Team
Megan Johnston, MSSA, LSW – Director, Regional Services
Megan is passionate about supporting the foster care community. With both personal insight and more than twelve years of professional work in child welfare and family support services, she is dedicated to helping caregivers feel confident and supported through every step of their journey.
Known for her warm communication style and practical problem-solving skills, Megan brings a thoughtful, person-centered approach to every interaction. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, exploring local trails, and getting lost in a good book.
Shaffawn Carroll – Foster Engagement Specialist , Foster Care Hub
Shaffawn is a Foster Care Engagement Specialist with a passion for supporting youth, families, and communities through advocacy, connection, and compassion. With firsthand experience as a foster parent and a strong background in administration, writing, and nonprofit work, she brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her role.
She previously worked as an Executive Assistant, where she built a strong foundation in organization, communication, and leadership support. Today, she uses that blend of strategic thinking and empathy to engage families, coordinate services, and empower those navigating the foster care system.
