YESS
After Care Services for Young Adults
YESS, Young adults Establishing Self Sufficiency, is an advanced independent living model. It is a collaborative partnership between RICORP’s Life Skills Center and the RI Dept. of Children, Youth, and Families to serve young adults age 18 through their 21st birthday, who have demonstrated a level of maturity and capacity towards greater independence.
Young adults transitioning to YESS are expected to be finishing high school or a high school equivalency program; or, attending a trade school or post-secondary educational program; and/or working. On a case-by-case basis, applicants who do not meet these criteria may be accepted based upon their individual circumstances.
While their social worker or current provider staff may assist with the application development, it is the applying young adult that directs the process. Applicants must be a major contributor in identifying required services.
Once an applicant is screened for admission, the young adult, social worker, and program staff will meet to discuss model guidelines, and focus on the client’s specific needs. Applicants will be involved in the development of their self-sufficiency plan, which summarizes the young adult’s strengths and challenges - and emphasizes the living skills that the participant will develop/refine as they prepare for a gradual transition to independence. A member of the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) legal team is invited to all self sufficiency plan signings.
Participants assist in defining their service needs and maintain responsibility for their living expenses. This will be completed with assistance from their social worker, program staff, and the provider of YESS-model services; and (in most cases), will include three main areas:
a. Limited case management supports.
b. Establishment of Budget/living expenses.
c. Self-Sufficiency plan (goals).
The current provider (agency or foster parents) is given the first opportunity to offer YESS-model services, thus maintaining the connection they have with the young adult. When this is not possible YESS staff will work with the applicant in securing viable living arrangements, and securing case management services through another provider or offering them internally (as needed).
The State ensures that young adults accepted in a YESS program will:
- Receive medical assistance until age 21 and have access to all medical and behavioral health services.
- Be able to access the DCYF Higher Education Tuition Assistance Grant and Chafee Educational Vouchers through RICORP’s Chafee Life Skill’s Center to attend a trade school or a post-secondary educational institution.
- Retain eligibility to apply for Teen Grants.
For information on YESS please contact Madeline at (401) 497-3545.
For admission information or an application, please choose the following links:
©2010 RICORP, All Rights Reserved
Revised:
15-Feb-10