Youth Transition Program
School Districts
This program is designed to help students with disabilities from ages 5 to 24 to prepare for their future by focusing on their interests and abilities. Our services assist youth in making the transition from elementary to secondary to post-secondary education, teaching them the skills they will need to maximize their independence and empowering them to realize their full potential.
Our classes include:
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Being connected to disability-related programs, services, information, and activities helps youth and their parents to become more aware of their options, make informed choices, and maximize youth’s success.
To be eligible for the program, students need to be 5 to 24 years of age and currently receiving services under the Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.
Ability 1st Utah’s Youth Program Services are provided during the school year at Nebo, Provo, Alpine, Wasatch, and North and South Sanpete school districts. Our services are free to all of the students that we serve.
Youth Transition to Adulthood
The Youth Transition to Adulthood class is offered at our Provo location and serves students 18 to 30 years old who are transitioning to community living. These specific skills teach youth how to live as independently as possible. Some of the highlighted skills classes are:
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Advocacy
- Peer support
- Health & safety
- Communication and socialization
- Recreation
- Money management
- Grooming and hygiene
- Household management
Free transportation to and from our center is available.
Youth Summer Program
Our youth summer program runs during the months of June, July, and part of August for youth between ages 17 and 30. Youth have opportunities to participate in social activities, as well as Independent Living life skills classes. An activity calendar is provided in our newsletter.
Additionally, youth are invited to participate in an annual leadership conference sponsored by the Utah Statewide Independent Living Council and supported by the center’s emphasis on independent living. This conference provides youth with disabilities the opportunity to network with other youth statewide and gain necessary leadership skills. They also receive guidance and support for successful transitions from school to achieve their individual education, employment, recreational, and housing goals.
Youth Program Success Story
Suzy struggled with expressing her needs and asking questions when she wasn’t understanding a particular topic.
Throughout the year, during our self-advocacy lessons and community integration, Suzy learned practical strategies to communicate effectively, such as using “I” statements, and learned how to self-regulate under pressure. She practiced asking for accomodations for herself and others, and gained confidence with the help of her supportive environment.
Throughout the youth program, Suzy has shown significant growth, especially with her leadership skills. She even helped teach some lessons throughout the year, and assisted in de-escalating some potential arguments among her peers. We are so proud of Suzy and the work that she has done!
For more information, please contact:
Youth Program Coordinators