How it works
Learning to become an independent adult is a critical life skill for teenagers aging out of the foster care system, but it takes practice.
The Independent Living Academy is an Independent Living program for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system or who have been in custody prior to their 19th birthday. The goal is to provide them with an independent living experience partnered with dependable support.
The program helps ease the transition into adulthood by equipping participants with the skills, knowledge, experience, and support they’ll need. With everything they learn through the ILA, they will be much better prepared to obtain education, housing, employment, health services and form permanent supportive relationships.
These young people never had the support of a stable upbringing, so this program helps them learn to become an adult with the benefit of guard rails and a safety net.
Who is a good candidate for the program?
An ideal candidate for the ILA…
- is eligible for Extension of Foster Care Services
- is 18 to 21 years of age
- has an education plan (still in High school, GED, college, technical school)
- works a total of 80 hours a month (available after they complete a high school/GED program)
- has an IQ of at least 70
- hasn’t exhibited suicidal or homicidal behavior in the last six months
- has no pending felony charges (previous charges will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- can pass a drug screening
- is capable of living semi-independently successfully
- must have been in custody on their 18th birthday
What benefits does the Independent Living Academy offer?
Education
ILA participants get assistance with setting goals for their education plan, help with completing financial aid forms, and referrals to tutoring programs.
Employment
ILA participants can attend career exploration classes, job readiness training, and receive linkages to Job & Career Centers
Financial
ILA participants can take advantage of a savings matching program and receive a monthly allowance
Food & Nutrition
ILA participants receive monthly monetary assistance for food and can take free classes on cooking healthy within a budget
Health
ILA participants receive a local gym membership, linkages to medical services, and referrals to healthcare resources
Housing
ILA participants live in a spacious furnished home with individually furnished bedrooms. The home is shared with other roommates who are also program participants.
Transportation
ILA participants are provided with a monthly bus pass. Program staff can also assist with transportation.
Life Skills
ILA participants attend weekly life skills classes and are invited to social events celebrating their peers' successes and holiday parties.
What do the rooms look like?
All rooms are equipped with a twin bed, desk, storage cabinet, mini fridge, and a keypad entrance to the room to maintain privacy.
Want to make a referral?
Eric Moore | Assistant Regional Director, Independent Living
Phone: 629-256-0610
Email: [email protected]
Teresa Gibson | Executive Director, Tennessee
Phone: 931-209-5309
Email: [email protected]
Get in touch with the Omni team
Whether you’re considering becoming a foster/adoptive parent or are in the middle of your journey and support, we want to help you. Click below to connect with our team, we’d love to talk.