The Purpose of the Independent Living Program
The Independent Living Program (ILP) was created to support older youth in the foster care system—typically ages 16 to 21—as they prepare to transition into adulthood. ILP exists because many youth in foster care do not have permanent families to help them with basic adult responsibilities like finding housing, getting a job, or enrolling in school.
“ILP gives youth the skills and support they need to stand on their own, without feeling like they’re doing it completely alone.”
What Services Does ILP Provide?
ILP services vary by state and region, but they typically include:
- Life skills training (budgeting, cooking, time management)
- Help with education (tutoring, scholarships, FAFSA assistance)
- Career support (job search, resume building, interview prep)
- Housing guidance (locating affordable housing, understanding leases)
- Health and wellness resources (accessing health care, mental health services)
- Transportation assistance (bus passes, driver’s education)
These services are often delivered through workshops, one-on-one coaching, or group classes.
Who Is Eligible for ILP?
Eligibility for ILP generally includes:
- Youth in foster care who are between ages 16–21 (some states extend this to 23 or 24)
- Youth who have been in foster care at any time after their 16th birthday
- Some programs also support youth who were adopted or entered legal guardianship after age 16
Youth can self-refer, or social workers, case managers, or group home staff can connect them to the program.
Why ILP Matters for Aged-Out Youth
When youth leave foster care without preparation, they’re more vulnerable to:
- Homelessness
- Unemployment
- Involvement with the justice system
- Mental health struggles
ILP reduces these risks by building confidence, competence, and community. Many youth say ILP was the first time they felt someone genuinely cared about their future.
Common Challenges with Accessing ILP
While ILP is a powerful tool, access can be uneven. Some youth report:
- Not knowing the program exists
- Being disconnected from services after a placement move
- Inconsistent follow-up from agencies
- A lack of culturally responsive support
That’s why outreach and advocacy are critical. Every eligible youth should know about ILP and be encouraged to participate early.
How to Advocate for ILP Enrollment
If you’re working with or mentoring youth in the foster care system, here are a few ways to help them access ILP:
- Connect them with their social worker to get referred
- Visit your state’s child welfare website to find the local ILP coordinator
- Encourage youth to advocate for their own participation
- Help with paperwork, deadlines, and setting up appointments
- Share success stories from peers who’ve benefited from ILP
Success Through Support
ILP doesn’t “fix” all the challenges that youth face after foster care, but it gives them a fighting chance. With structure, encouragement, and access to meaningful resources, youth are more likely to thrive, not just survive.
Programs like ILP remind youth in foster care that they’re not forgotten—and that their future still holds promise.
