Foundations of Independent Living An Overview A Training Outline Developed by

Congress learned through research and testimonials from foster care youth and Child Welfare professionals that the needs of youth exiting the substitute care system were not being met. Finding the appropriate methods, resources, services, and supports to meet the needs of youth exiting care can be a challenge. Pennsylvania Child Welfare professionals have a responsibility to meet these challenges by providing Independent Living services designed to assist youth in preparing for education, employment, housing, and successful management of adult responsibilities. Approximately 20,000 youth nationally exit substitute care each year because they reach age 18. In many instances they are expected to support themselves. In reality, many of these youth find it difficult to successfully transition into adulthood, resulting in high rates of homelessness, poverty, delinquent or criminal behavior, or abuse. Pennsylvania Child Welfare professionals need to be able to identify the continuum of Independent Living services and determine what realistic approach would best support the needs of the individual youth. Additionally, Pennsylvania Child Welfare professionals need to be able to transfer these skills and knowledge to the youth exiting substitute care in order to make every effort possible to reduce or eliminate the instances of homelessness, poverty, and delinquent or criminal behavior, while increasing employability, high school graduation rates, enrollment in post secondary or vocational institutions, and the successful transition to adulthood