The purpose of this grant is to provide life skills programs for homeless and unstably housed youth in Jefferson County, Kentucky. The primary goal is for target youth to increase the number of critical life skills they possess to become more self-sufficient. This project aims to provide life skills education (e.g., workforce prep, communication & conflict resolution) to homeless or unstably housed youth ages 12 to 22 years. Findings for the short-term outcomes delineated on this grant are as follows:

1) Increased number of youth participants demonstrating an application of specified life skills - When homeless youth are given the same opportunities as other youth, 100% are successful at applying a chosen life skills, such as acquiring employment, acquiring housing, opening a bank account, completing a GED or high school diploma, and more. The most basic needs have to be met first in order for them to be able to apply the life skills. All participants stated they need mentors and elders to help them as they apply life skills. This "web of support" seems to be the most integral piece for applying the life skills they learn.

2) Target youth exhibiting self-sufficiency as demonstrated through varied means of personal autonomy - At the Youth Development Center site, more than 24 youth gained employment directly through the program and have been able to maintain employment for at least 6 months; 15 homeless young adults gained access to stable housing with the assistance of site staff; 14 youth received assistance with accessing mental health services; 5 youth worked toward completion of their GED, with 4 obtaining their GED; and 8 youth began attending higher education institutions. By the end of the year, 35 youth active in the YDC program were working or attending school. 

3) Increase in community collaborations and partnerships that offer youth support systems and life skills resources  - As organizations and individuals learn about the program, they offer to assist in any way possible. This allows youth to become aware of more community supports and resources. Through community networking and engagement, over 45 organizations and businesses know about the program, have assisted through teaching life skills, or provided resource information.