Supportive Independent Living
Summary
Supportive Independent Living (SIL) is defined as the placement and supervision of children who are 16 years or older in their own unlicensed residence or in the unlicensed residence of an adult who has no supervisory responsibility for the youth.
Good Will Farm (GWF) has a two step process where some of the youth first live in the home of an adult and pay rent. The youth, homeowner and GWF sign an agreement that spells out the responsibilities of each party. The adult homeowner (or renter) doesn't have supervisory responsibilities, but does agree to set house rules, act as a role model, and have regular contact with the GWF staff.
The second step is for youth ready to live in their own residence (with support). In both steps, GWF staff meets at least weekly with the youth. During these visits the staff ensures that the youth are fulfilling the educational and employment requirements of the program.
The staff also provides supportive services and education related to a variety of work, finance, relationship, and life skill areas. Each visit is also an opportunity to measure progress and continue an ongoing assessment of the youth's needs.
Assessment
GWF will administer to youth an Independent Living Skills Assessment, and consult with past placements and workers to obtain information to complete an Initial Service/ Transitional Living Plan (ISP/TLP).
- Subjects covered in the ISP/TLP include (but are not limited to):
- Community Resources Available
- Education
- Employment/Economic Self Sufficiency
- Family Reunification or Resolution
- Health Care
- Housing
- Legal Rights
- Money Management
- Pregnancy & Teen Parenting (if applicable)
- Substance Abuse
- The ISP/TLP will clearly define the following:
- Results of Assessment
- Goals to be Accomplished
- Services and Strategies to Achieve Goals
- Criteria for graduating to self-sufficiency
Skill Training
- GWF will provide education to assist youth in achieving sustainable independence. Topics include:
- Alcohol, Drugs and Substance Abuse
- Careers and Long Range Planning
- Locating & Maintaining Employment
- Educational/Vocational Options
- Communication & Interpersonal Relations
- Community Resources, Including Transportation
- Conflict Resolution
- Contraception & Pregnancy
- Decision Making
- Domestic Violence and Date Rape
- First Aid & Home Safety
- Health & Hygiene
- Setting Up a Residence
- Shopping & Nutrition
- Household Maintenance & Upkeep
- Rights of Renters & Landlords
- Money Management, Budgeting & Financial Responsibility
- Banking and Credit Issues
- Prenatal/Postnatal Care & Parenting
- Use of Community Emergency Services
- Sex, Sexually Transmitted Diseases & AIDS
Education
GWF will assure that all youth are assessed in reading and math, and have a written educational plan. At least monthly contact will be made with all appropriate educational institutions to measure and track progress.
GWF will provide or facilitate access to educational guidance, counseling and tutoring, and any necessary assistance with applying for financial aide, student loans, entrance exams, grants and scholarships.
Employment
GWF will provide or assist youth in gaining access to job skills training and placement programs. GWF will serve as an advocate for youth and will assist youth with locating, obtaining and maintaining employment. GWF will have regular contact with employers to monitor performance and progress.
Specialized Services
GWF will provide family reunification services and/or resolution services when possible and appropriate.
GWF will assist youth in agreements they cannot legally obtain due to age (ie: leases and utilities). Other circumstances may require GWF to help youth manage their funds and pay bills, etc. But in most cases it is expected that each youth directly receives and manages their own finances.
Graduation
- Before graduation from the program, each youth will possess a portfolio containing:
- Certified Birth Certificate
- Social Security Card
- State ID or Driver's License
- Detailed Medical and Dental Records (including immunizations)
- School Records
- Selective Service Registration (as required by law)
- Copy of Current Resume
- Information/Materials Relating to Significant Events
Staff will help each youth celebrate their graduation!
