Guardian Light Family Services | Foster Care Nebraska

Support Across Nebraska,
by Your Side at Every Step.

GLFS office

Visitation center

Family support workers

Foster care specialists

Therapists / skill builders

Foster care essentials

Training & ongoing support

Nebraska-wide Service

Serving All of Nebraska

We are Nebraska's only family support and foster care organization that is 100% distributed; we work all across Nebraska so we can serve families all over Nebraska.

Impact across Nebraska

Hundreds of youth and families find hope and support through our caring foster network, building brighter futures for Nebraskans together.

Statewide Service

We're a distributed team, which means we have caring and supportive team members all over the state to provide service to all 93 of Nebraska's counties.

5 Visitation Centers

With Visitation Centers in North Platte, Kearney, Sidney, Scottsbluff, and Omaha we're here to support your families no matter where you live.

Step-by-Step
Foster Parent Training

Guardian Light provides comprehensive TIPS-MAPP training to prepare foster parents for every stage of their journey. Our structured training program equips families with practical strategies for trauma-informed care, behavioral management, and building strong connections with the youth in their homes. Beyond initial certification, we offer ongoing guidance and professional development to help foster parents navigate challenges with confidence and grow in their caregiving skills.

Always Here,
Day or Night

Foster parenting doesn't follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither does our support. Guardian Light's team is available around the clock to provide guidance during critical moments—whether you're facing a behavioral crisis at midnight or need advice before a morning court hearing. Our 24/7 availability means you're never alone in this journey, with experienced professionals just a phone call away whenever you need them.

image of parents and staff discussing enrollment

Experienced
and Caring Team

Our team brings decades of combined experience in foster care, social work, and family services across Nebraska. Every Guardian Light staff member is deeply committed to supporting both foster families and the youth in their care with compassion, professionalism, and practical expertise. We understand the unique challenges of foster parenting because we've walked alongside hundreds of families—and we're honored to walk alongside yours.

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Comprehensive
Training & Guidance

We provide all the training you need to feel confident and prepared, with expert guidance and resources tailored for new foster parents.

24/7 Local Support

Our dedicated caseworkers are available day and night, so you’re never alone—help is always just a call away, no matter where you are.

Statewide Community

With five visitation centers and an experienced team all across Nebraska, you’ll find a welcoming community and local support wherever you call home.

Guardian Light team member with foster families

Financial Assistance

Receive monthly reimbursements and help with expenses, so you can focus on providing a safe, loving environment for children in need.

Latest Blog Posts

Foster Care Tips

What to Expect in Your First Conversation with a Foster Care Agency

Foster Care Tips

Why Nebraska Needs More Foster Parents Right Now

Foster Care Tips

Supporting Foster Families in the Lincoln Area: Your Guide to Getting Started

Resources

What is the Process to Access Family Services in Lincoln?

What support do I get?

You'll never be alone in your fostering journey! Support includes a dedicated caseworker, 24/7 crisis line, respite care, support groups, ongoing training, and connection to our foster parent community. We're here to help you succeed and provide the best care for children.

Is training in person?

We offer both in-person and online training options to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Many foster parents choose a hybrid approach, completing some modules online and attending in-person sessions for hands-on learning and connection with other prospective foster parents.

What are age requirements?

Foster parents must be at least 21 years old. There is no maximum age limit—what matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable home and keep up with the physical and emotional demands of caring for children.

Do I need to own a home?

No, homeownership is not required. Both homeowners and renters can become foster parents. Your home simply needs to meet safety standards and have adequate space for a child, including a separate sleeping area.

Can single people foster?

Yes! Single individuals can absolutely become licensed foster parents. We welcome applications from single adults, married couples, and domestic partners who meet our requirements and are committed to caring for children.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy! Simply contact one of our Nebraska offices or fill out our online application. We'll schedule an initial meeting to discuss the process, answer your questions, and help you understand what to expect.

Targeted Help for Nebraska Families

Family Support workers partner with parents and caregivers to enhance protective factors within their households using evidence-based practices — aiming for safety, permanency and well-being.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

Services include parenting-time/supervised visits, drug-testing services and broad family-support outreach across Nebraska, helping families navigate multiple needs in one place.

Trusted Public-Sector Partnership

The program works under contract with the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) for referred clients, which reinforces credibility and regulatory alignment.

Local Access and Statewide Coverage

While based in North Platte, GLFS's Family Support services reach families throughout Nebraska — providing accessible support whether you're urban or rural.

Holistic Support, Not Just Crisis Intervention

Rather than only reacting to issues, the program supports parents and guardians proactively with coaching, resources and education to strengthen the overall family system.

Mission-Driven Impact and Measurable Reach

The agency reports having served hundreds of families in recent years, showcasing both experience and community commitment.

Guardian Light & it's team exemplifies the transformative impact of family support and foster care by creating nurturing environments where children can heal, grow, and thrive. This company really does stand out for its unwavering commitment to matching children with compassionate, well-prepared foster families and offering ongoing support to both the children and caregivers!

Jessica Kenyon

This company is such a necessary part to the foster care system. This is vital for the community, these foster care homes to help these children

David Karmazin

Children participating in Guardian Light community event

The dedication and values of this company and the team are inspiring. If you're considering opening your hearts and home to a child or children in need, I would encourage you to contact this team.

Jessica Riley

Become A Child's Hero

Your decision to become a foster parent can change a child's life forever. Guardian Light is here to support you every step of the way.

Apply To Become
A Foster Family

Because Every Child Deserves A Loving Home.