If you’re trying to grow your foster program, one of the most important places to start isn’t on social media or with a flyer—it’s your website. Your website is your organization’s virtual front door. When potential foster caregivers stop by, you want them to feel welcome, encouraged, and excited to get involved. But too often, fostering information is hard to find or buried under volunteer content, leaving supporters confused or discouraged.
So how do you fix that? Here are a few key ways to make your website more foster-friendly:
- Make It Easy to Find
The foster section of your website should be easy to access. Ideally, “Foster” is listed right on your homepage menu—just like “Adopt” or “Donate.” If it’s not, it should be no more than two clicks away. This simple change sends a strong message: you value foster caregivers and want people to get involved. Ideally, keep your “Foster” content separate from “Volunteer” content. Fostering is a unique role with different responsibilities, so it deserves its own spotlight. - Keep the Language Friendly and Clear
Avoid using language that gives readers the impression that you’re screening people out. Instead, use warm, welcoming language that highlights how easy and rewarding fostering can be. Include bullet points, photos and simple calls to action. Skip the long paragraphs—most people will skim, and they need to find answers fast. - Speak to Two Different Audiences
Your foster webpage should serve two groups: people who are thinking about fostering, and people who already are. Consider creating two separate pages:a. Thinking of Fostering? This is where you give an overview of your program, share different types of fostering (sleepovers, short-term, long-term), and explain what support and supplies your organization provides.b. Current Foster Resources: This section includes your foster manual, FAQs, emergency contacts, guidance on medical and behavior issues, vaccine scheduling, and how to market pets for adoption.
When information is easy to find, your current fosters will be more successful—and more likely to keep fostering. - Make It Actionable
Once someone lands on your foster page, what can they do? Ideally, they should be able to learn why fosters are needed, learn what fostering involves, see which pets need foster homes, sign up online and complete or schedule orientation or training (bonus points if it’s offered virtually!). Clear next steps keep people moving forward instead of giving up or clicking away. - Keep It Fresh
Schedule regular audits of your foster pages to make sure links work and the information is still up to date. An outdated page can frustrate users or make your program seem inactive.
Well-designed foster messaging and pages on your website can show supporters you value foster caregivers and turn their interest into action. By setting clear expectations and offering support up front, you’ll help more potential caregivers say “yes” to fostering.