Transition Planning & Action / Youth Transition Services

Transition Planning & Action / Youth Transition Services

SOMETIMES YOU NEED A LITTLE HELP TO GET MOVING. THAT IS WHY WE’RE HERE.

If you are ready to leave a nursing home, then we are ready to help. We can facilitate your move into a private residence and give you the support you need to live independently.

Transition Planning and Advocacy

You do not want to just pack up and leave. You need a plan. We are available to anyone who requires help mapping out their move, and we’ll also work with your nursing home or other institution to make sure you can enjoy independent living the way you want. Disability Network West Michigan offers a number of pre-employment transition services (sometimes referred to as “pre-ETS”) that can help.

YOUTH TRANSITION SERVICES – IGNITE PROGRAM

WHAT IS THE IGNITE PROGRAM?

Ignite is a pre-employment transition program directed toward identifying and empowering teens and young adults with disabilities who may encounter challenges transitioning into adulthood after school. The program staff will foster a commitment to young people that will promote independence through self-determination, self-advocacy, strong interpersonal skills, and hope for the future.

WHAT ARE THE KEYS TO SUCCESS?

Access to a quality education
– Access to safe places to interact and make connections with peers
– Develop social, civic, and leadership skills
– Information on career options, including structured internships
– Support services and accommodations to become independent

These opportunities can steer families, institutions, and young people themselves through the transition processes.

IGNITING RESULTS, ONE STEP AT A TIME

When our participants finish the Ignite Program, we know they will be better equipped to address adult issues they will face once they transition from post-secondary education, such as:

– Employment readiness skills
– Financial responsibility
– How to be a good team player
– How to handle conflict
– How to lead a self-determined life
– How to make good decisions about where to live, recreate, and work
– How to present yourself when seeking employment
– Management of your own home

WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS?

All individuals are referred differently but most often through a state vocational rehabilitation services organization. Referrals may be made by school counselors, teachers, parents, or other important supporters connected to the youth.

IGNITE STYC

Summer Youth Program

Disability Network West Michigan offers three separately scheduled summer program opportunities for teens and young adults with disabilities. The goal of the summer program is to offer youth an opportunity to develop goals and plans for what will come after completing secondary education.

IGNITE Session I

A peer-to-peer teaching program designed for young people with disabilities. Our goal is to inspire young adults with disabilities to live full and independent lives. The program sessions are uniquely designed to peak the interests of today’s teens and young adults, focusing on their needs and strengths. Some of the ground we cover includes disability history and disability rights, self-discovery, valuing yourself, communication and problem-solving, steps to employment, internet safety, and self-directed individualized education plans (IEPs).

IGNITE Session II

A transition program designed to assist youth with disabilities develop the skills and strengths they will need after school; with the hope of inspiring them to live full and independent lives. The program sessions are uniquely designed for the interest areas of today’s youth. Some of the ground we cover in this program includes; self-discovery and valuing self, career exploration, work readiness skills, digital footprint, money management, and housing options.

Need more information about our Youth Pre-Employment Transition Services? Contact our office at 231-722-0088.