Independent Living Program - Florida's Center for Child Welfare

How Is TransitionPlanned?The transitionteam meetsregularly tofigure outwhat will workfor the youth,then commitsto executingits strategy.Independent Living Plans:Each Community Based Care provider will determinewho is responsible for transition planning for youthwith disabilities. Usually the caseworker andindependent living staff will work together withthe youth to create a transition component to theyouth’s case plan. The Florida Statutes specify whenstaffings must take place for youth in state care,who must be invited, and what must be covered.Frequency of Independent Living Staffings:Ages 13 and 14 – staffing must takeplace at least once a yearAges 15 to 18 – staffing must takeplace at least every six monthsWho Should AttendIndependent Living Staffings?(All Must be Invited)• The Youth• The Services Worker & Supervisor• The Youth’s caregiver• The Youth’s guardian ad litem• The Youth’s attorney• The independent living service provider• Any other individuals significantto and familiar with the Youth• Family members likely to be involved withthe Youth after the Youth leaves foster care• The Youth shall be encouraged to invite anyadults who are important in the Youth’s life• The attorney for the StateWhatMust Be Discussed atIndependent Living Staffings?• The Youth’s educational and work goals• Youth’s progress and any obstaclesthe Youth is facing• What life skills the Youth needs includingbudgeting, banking, and getting a driver’s license• Youth’s progress toward developing alreadyidentified skills• Permanency arrangements includingthe Youth’s wishes regarding adoption• Information on the SubsidizedIndependent Living program• Information on the Road to Independence Program• Information concerning tuition fee exemptionand the Bright Futures Program• Any other identified obstacles and needs theYouth has with regard to Independent LivingIn addition...For Youth Age 17• The Youth’s plans for livingarrangement after age 18• The life skills services that may needto be continued past age 1814