Serving as the managing partner of the Markmel Company in Iowa, Mark Allen Hanrahan seeks and evaluates potential investments in venture capital projects and real estate. Mark Allen Hanrahan is also an active philanthropist, contributing to Bethany Christian Services, a faith-based adoption agency.

In addition to its adoption services, Bethany supports foster care for teenagers and children who have had to leave home because of abuse or neglect. Bethany connects these youngsters with supportive families who will shelter them and care for them.

What does it take to be a foster parent or parents? Basically, whether single or in a couple, foster parents must be able to provide a home where there is social stability and room for the child or teenager. Simply renting a home is sufficient; one doesn’t need to own a house. Foster parents must also have the maturity to be patient with their charges. Knowing the stages of childhood and adolescent development is helpful but not necessary. 

In addition, parents must be able to work with the Bethany staff to help their children achieve certain goals, which are individualized for each child. The agency provides thorough training, particularly in dealing with traumatic situations. It also links parents with support groups, a caseworker, and a 24-hour emergency line. Finally, Bethany offers respite care to give parents a break from their responsibilities.