Focuses on preparing teenagers and adults to lead independent lives.

This program addresses four critical areas to prepare individuals for adulthood and independent living:

Self-Determination: Clients identify and communicate preferences regarding important life decisions. In doing so, they learn to identify their own strengths and weaknesses, self-select and monitor goals, make responsible decisions, problem solve and advocate for their wants and needs.

Employment Preparation: A long-term goal for all clients is to obtain and maintain meaningful employment. In addition to training in specific job tasks, clients learn the social, hygienic, self-management and communication skills necessary to achieve success in future employment settings.

Community Inclusion: Becoming a member of one’s community can widen an individual’s circle of support, increase self-worth and provide opportunities for social and recreational activities. Clients learn the social skills critical to making and maintaining relationships, and the self-management skills necessary in various aspects of their community.

Quality of Life: Self-determination, meaningful employment and being a member of one’s community all lead to increases in quality of life. Personal strengths, interests and preferences are integrated into each individual’s program to ensure satisfaction and success.

The goal of Real Life is to provide individuals with the tools needed to live fulfilling, productive and independent adult lives. By building skills in planning, organization, assertiveness, goal setting, stress reduction and time management, clients are able to live and work to their optimal potential. Clients will learn to manage their own needs with a focus on communication and self-management. Personal interests are integrated into the program to increase motivation. The program builds on those interests and practices the above skills while creating multiple opportunities to increase independent functioning at home and in the community.