The Program provides a ten bed, 24-hour supervised apartment program with services aimed toward preparing 16 - 21 year old homeless youths to become self-sufficient. Length of stay in the Program cannot exceed 18 months and history has shown the average stay to be 6 months. The Program employs the folowing methods to promote self sufficiency:

• Hands on teaching

• Supervision

• Workshops

• Support groups

• House meetings

• Youth involvement in the development/implementation of case plans

• Discharge planning

• After care service

In order to familiarize residents with genuine independent living, they are charged an affordable rent that is placed in a savings account and returned to them at discharge as a "nest egg" for their future. A positive approach is used where participants are extended extra privileges such as later curfews when they demonstrate responsible behavior and are actively working on their case plan. The Program also strives to build youth assets by offering community volunteer opportunities, board memberships, recreation, enrichment, and leadership activities within the Program.

See also:
Hillcrest House

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