ils - independent living skills program

Assisting youth in a successful transition from state-supported foster care to an autonomous, yet interdependent, life within the community.

Independent Living Skills focuses on helping youth gain basic life skills, confidence, and information they need to answer some of the many questions they have as they prepare to move out on their own. Some of these questions are:

• How do I find a place to live?
• How can I find a job I like that pays well?
• Can I go to college? How? Can I get financial aid?
• How much will it cost to live on my own?

ILS is a combination of weekly classes and individual education. Each youth in ILS works with an ILS case manager, the family and caseworker to develop an action plan based on the youth's own goals for the future. By working as a team, each young person is given the particular help and guidance needed to reach his or her dreams!

Youth, who are in foster care, are expected to be on their own at age 18. This is an exciting time in their lives, a time full of promise and new found freedom. It also brings many challenges, and without family or financial support, those challenges can be overwhelming. The YWCA's ILS program, in partnership with the Division of Children and Family Services, is designed to help youth successfully meet the challenges of adult living.

Who can participate? Youth, both boys and girls, age 16-21 and who are referred by their DCFS caseworker.

How do I get involved? Call YWCA Clark County at 360-696-0167 and ask to speak to the ILS Coordinator.

Volunteer Opportunities: If you would like to be trained to work with youth in foster care, or are interested in other ways to get involved in positive youth and family development, please contact the YWCA at 360-696-0167.