Independent Living Program

Hillcrest offers an Independent Living Program that is designed to provide children ages 16 through 18 years with the skills and knowledge necessary to live independently in the community.                                                              

Eligibility                                                                                            Children are referred to the program through the Department of Child Services and the juvenile court system. The program is an extension of the residential program at Hillcrest and individuals must reside at Hillcrest to participate in the program.

Treatment Planning
The child completes an Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment® upon admission and works with our treatment team and the referral agency to develop an individualized plan that best fits the individual’s needs. The plan assists in setting goals to enhance existing skills and develop additional life skills to guide and prepare the individual for a future of self-reliance and independence. Re-evaluation takes place throughout the program to monitor the child's progress.            

Life Skills                                                                                         Children in the Independent Living Program learn and practice daily life skills in weekly group sessions that are based on the following life skills areas: career planning, communication, daily living, home life, housing and money management, self care, social relationships, work life and work and study skills.

The individual takes part in the “My Life” system which is an educational independent living tool that is designed to teach an individual in the Independent Living Program how to budget and manage his or her money. With the “My Life” system, each individual makes a plan and sets goals for his or her life; now, next week, next month, and so forth.

If you would like more information about the Independent Living Program at Hillcrest Washington Youth Home, please contact us at 812.428.0698.