Independent Living
Establishing New Roots
Transitioning to adulthood is a major milestone. For youth in the foster care system, having a stable foundation during this time is essential for future success. Orchards’ Independent Living Program is designed to meet the immediate needs of youth who qualify for the program beginning at age 16. Independent living provides a structured bridge to independence while ensuring young adults in the program never have to navigate the journey alone.
A Person-Centered Approach
We believe that every young person’s path to independence is unique. Our philosophy is based on a comprehensive team approach. The youth, their case manager, and other significant individuals function as a unified team to set and monitor individualized goals. Whether a youth is navigating educational hurdles or learning to manage a budget, our team is there to provide guidance.
For Our Youth: What to Expect
If you are between the ages of 16 and 20 and currently in the foster care system, this program is designed to help you build self-reliance and confidence. Youth aged 16 to 20 who qualify for the program must be referred by their foster care worker.
Participation Requirements:
- Commitment to Growth: You must be willing to learn the physical, emotional, and intellectual skills needed for independent living.
- Active Engagement: You must be enrolled in and regularly attending an educational or vocational program, or maintaining steady employment. You must also meet with your worker at least monthly.
- Judgment and Maturity: The program is for youth who demonstrate growth in self-care and personal judgment.
Skills You Will Gain:
Through the program, you will receive hands-on coaching in:
- Financial Literacy: Money management and budgeting.
- Career Readiness: Job seeking and workplace navigation.
- Essential Life Skills: Housing safety, emergency planning, and health management.
- Advocacy: Understanding your legal rights and educational planning.
For the Community: Become an Independent Living Provider
An Independent Living Provider is a mentor and a landlord wrapped into one. By opening a room or an apartment in your home to a youth in transition, you provide the stability they need to avoid homelessness and achieve self-sufficiency.
The Role of a Provider:
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- A Supportive Presence: You act as a mentor as the youth transitions out of the system.
- Stable Housing: You allow the youth to live in your home or a property you own.
- Collaborative Planning: You work with the case manager and the youth to implement a plan for their self-sufficiency.
- Financial Agreement: Youth pay an agreed-upon monthly rent to the provider, which typically covers housing, utilities, and sometimes meals.
Criteria to Become a Provider:
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- You must pass a criminal history check and a Central Registry Clearance.
- You must live in or own a home with accommodating, safe, and secure space.
- You must be willing to work as part of the Orchards team to support the youth's goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of living arrangement is required? Arrangements vary. It can be a rented room in a provider’s home, a shared apartment, or a single apartment unit, provided it is safe and secure.
Does the provider have to live in the home? Not necessarily. If the youth demonstrates a high maturity level, the provider may not need to reside in the same unit, subject to the case manager's discretion.
Provider Application:
Contact our Foster/Adopt/IL Team: