Transition Services is a next step for participants following their experience in the LEAP program.
It is intended for those interested in Eaton Academy’s apartment-based LIFE program.
Parents and participants will meet with the Transition Services Coordinator (TSC) to complete an initial assessment, discuss the current living situation, and decide whether Transition Services are appropriate. If it is decided that the program will be beneficial, an individualized plan will be created to help the participant develop the skills to achieve successful independence.
Transition Services will take place onsite twice a week for one month, at a minimum. Those receiving transition services will focus on a variety of areas necessary for them to become a candidate for the LIFE program, including:
Personal Finance
Money management is one of the core ingredients to successful independent living. If this is an area of concern for the individual, the Transition Services Coordinator will develop a system which brings awareness to spending habits, helps with budgeting, manages bill payments, and follows through with accountability.
Meal Planning & Cooking
Knowing how to plan nutritious meals, shop, and cook are all essential parts to living independently. The Transition Services Coordinator will emphasize concepts and also demonstrate how to prepare meals that would be appropriate for the Participant. Simple, healthy, and reasonably priced meals are encouraged and should lead to regular and sensible eating habits.
Household Cleaning & Laundry
Keeping up with household duties is necessary to becoming organized and a good housemate. The Transition Services Coordinator will assist the Participant in developing a cleaning/organization schedule to perform certain household tasks in their current living situation and follow up with them through home visits.
Personal Hygiene & Care
At times it may be necessary to address hygiene and personal care. Showering daily, combing hair, brushing teeth/flossing, shaving/trimming facial and body hair, and applying deodorant are all expected of our potential LIFE candidates. Independent medication management is vital for living independently, and the Transition Services Coordinator may assist in developing a system to ensure medications are taken as directed.
Transportation or Driving Preparation
Participants who need help navigating public transportation, such as Uber or Marta, will work with the Transition Services Coordinator to learn the system, read MARTA bus and rail schedules, and use the MARTA To-Go App or the Uber app. Discussions will also cover the importance of safety when using these methods of transport. Some participants may want to work towards obtaining their driver’s permits and may need guidance preparing for the written test. The Transition Services Coordinator does not assist with driving practice.
Social Planning
The Transition Services Coordinator will assist in promoting social interactions and health and wellness events with the Participant. The Transition Services Coordinator will encourage the creation of group plans with other LIFE and LEAP participants. The focus will be on how to make friends, how to foster healthy relationships, and how to keep friends. Transition Services participants are invited and encouraged to attend LIFE program socials.
Costs
The cost associated with Transition Services is $1,500.00 per month, for sessions delivered twice-weekly in a small group setting. Depending on the progress of the Participant, more than one month of Transition Services may be needed prior to consideration for the LIFE program.
