Independent Living Program

Our mission is to provide every eligible youth in care with independent living skills training to assist in transitioning our youth to a successful and independent lifestyle. ILP services are currently delivered to youth ages 14-21 by Side by Side and are partnered with Alameda County Social Services.

5 Pillars: Life Skill Focus

  1. Health and Wellness, including nutrition, follow up with mental, physical, and dental care, development & nurturance of healthy self-esteem and positive self-image, personal growth, emotional and physical stability, self-sufficiency and self-advocacy, ability to make healthy choices and problem-solve effectively;
  2. Establishment and Promotion of Relationships and Networks (Permanency) including preparation to transition out of foster care, short- and long-term goal setting, capability to manage basic daily tasks, ability to navigate and access services within the community, healthy relationships with family, friends and romantic partners, and adult permanent supportive connections;
  3. Stable and Affordable Housing, including planning for, seeking, securing and maintaining appropriate, adequate housing during and beyond foster care;
  4. Education Support and Achievement, including education performance, college readiness, computer literacy, study habits, college tours, post-secondary school application support, and administering scholarships and other financial support; and
  5. Employment Readiness and Career Development, including career exploration & financial literacy, management and budgeting, interview skills, work habits and partnership with employers and organizations committed to providing real work experience.

Eligibility:

  • Are currently in foster care or who were in foster care sometime on or after their 16th birthday
  • Exited foster care to adoption on or after their 16th birthday
  • Whose non-related legal guardianship occurred after their 8th birthday
  • Are living with relative guardianship supported by Kin-GAP

How can I get involved with ILP?

ILP-eligible youth are usually referred to ILP by their child welfare workers or probation officers. If you are eligible for services and have not been referred already, you may walk-in and speak to our Intake Specialist to register for ILP services. Together with the child welfare worker or probation officer, a youth should complete a Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP) before referral to ILP, and the TILP should be sent along with the referral form to the ILP office, either via fax 510-667-7629 or by email to Chontae Burks: Receptionist/ Intake & Eligibility at cburks@sidebysideyouth.org

ILP Services:

Pre-emancipation Life Skills classes:
Weekly life skills and emancipation planning classes covering education and employment, communication skills, health care, rights and responsibilities, financial literacy, workshops and more.

College Tours:
Visits to college campuses, including meetings with ILP alums who attend the colleges being toured.

Higher Education Application Assistance:
Individual support and assistance in preparing college applications.

Scholarship Application Assistance:
Workshops and individual assistance in researching and applying for scholarships at all levels of higher education.

California Youth Connection (CYC):
Leadership training and opportunities, including legislative advocacy for current and former foster youth.

After Care Assistance:
Individual assessments and case management for emancipated youth and AB12 participants.

Holiday Parties:
Elegant and festive events marking the mid-point of the ILP year, including the Halloween Outings, Harvest Dinner, and Holiday Party.

ILP Graduation:
Grand celebration of the students’ achievements as they transition to college, vocational training, and the world of work.