The Independent Living Program (ILP) at YAI is providing 26 weekly training sessions that focus on self-direction, decision-making, problem-solving, risk-taking, organization skills, recognizing when to ask for help, and self-advocacy in small group settings for adults in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx who want to further develop their independent living skills. Weekly topics touch upon money management, community safety, self-care, friendships and relationships, health and nutrition, and more. YAI staff members support adults in their learning, and each member contributes to the group dynamic by assisting their peers and also has the opportunity to co-teach sessions.
The ILP program:
- meets on weekday evenings for 2 hours for a duration of 26 weeks
- has different groups each year, i.e. 2 groups based out of Manhattan, 1 group in Brooklyn, and 1 group in Queens
- has two friendly and enthusiastic facilitators for each group
- accepts applications throughout the year
- is free of charge
To attend ILP sessions, individuals must be 18 years or older, live at home with their parents or guardians, reside in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, or Brooklyn, have a mild intellectual disability, and be able to travel to ILP meetings independently. ILP aims to help individuals make strides and reach their goals of living independently. Applications are now being accepted for programs beginning in the fall.
For more information about YAI’s Independent Living Program, please call YAI Link at (212) 273-6182 or send an email to Whitney Cottle at whitney.cottle@yai.org. Click here to download a copy of the application.