Independent Living Program

The CHRIS Kids Independent Living Program (ILP) was established in 1986 to help youth in the foster care and juvenile justice systems, ages 17-21, make a successful transition to responsible, independent adulthood. They live in apartments with 24-hour staff supervision. Residents learn independent living skills through both informal coaching and a life/job skills curriculum. They pursue educational/job-related opportunities and practice responsible decision-making. They also receive assistance in developing natural support systems and utilizing community resources. Vocational and aftercare programs provide additional support.

Residents are young adults, ages 17-21, who have often been in treatment facilities, group homes or other placements and are in need of additional training and skill building to live independently. They may have been homeless, living in out-of-home placement, or in a disruptive home environment. Many ILP residents have poor social skills, few positive peer relationships, and low self esteem. ILP provides an effective transition on the path to total self-sufficiency for youth who are leaving the foster care or juvenile justice systems and need to attain independence in increments.

The young adults accepted into the program are required to meet certain criteria. They must be capable of obtaining and maintaining full-time employment if not in school or part-time employment if attending school regularly. They must be capable of and willing to assume responsibility for independent living in an apartment complex where they must be respectful of other residents, including those living in the program as well as those living in the apartment complex as a whole. They are expected to follow rules such as meeting curfew, doing chores, and participating in activities, which includes everything from fun outings, vocational and life skills training to counseling.

In 2003, ILP and the Rainbow Program partnered to enhance supervision and services in both programs.

For more information on the Independent Living Program, please contact Intake at CHRIS Kids.

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