Independent Living Program

Learning practical independent living skills is an ongoing process in Third Way Center’s coeducational, community based programs. At every facility the residents maintain the household by doing all the cooking, cleaning and maintenance themselves under the supervision of staff. Third Way Center does not employ cooks or janitors.

Job search, skills and employment are critical and actively promoted. Eighty percent of our clients’ earned income goes into joint-signature savings accounts to be used for independent living. Third Way Center’s residents also earn nights out and an allowance which is dependent on school attendance, weekly chores, behavior and job performance (if applicable). They can earn up to three nights out during the week and two nights out on the weekends and are encouraged to have outside friends and interests. The staff have ongoing contact with teachers, family and friends of residents.

Independent Living Groups teach residents everything from how to budget to how to use public transportation. Therapists and Mental Health Workers take their youth shopping for groceries and clothes and clients who are living in their own apartments are monitored constantly to make sure they have healthy food in their kitchens and are cleaning and taking care of their apartments appropriately.