ValueOptions® Opens Second Facility to Assist Young Adults Transitioning Into Adulthood and Independent Living
ValueOptions Expands Transitional Housing Program for 18-25 Year Olds, Adding Five Units
Phoenix, Arizona — June 6, 2006
ValueOptions, Maricopa County's Regional Behavioral Health Provider, announced today theopening of the Allen House, a community living setting in Mesa, providing 24-hour support for young adults transitioning out of the children's behavioral health system and the one year anniversary of the Clarendon Apartments in Phoenix. Both the Allen House and the Clarendon Apartments were created to provide 18-25 year olds
with a smooth transition as they move into adulthood and independent living.
"Providing comprehensive support services to youth with behavioral health issues transitioning out of the children's behavioral system is critical to their success. Many ‘age out' of the children's system without any support and lack the skills necessary to manage their illnesses and accomplish their goals," said Jill Rowland, Director, SMI Program Development of ValueOptions of Arizona.
The Allen House provides a stable living environment, support services and treatment for transitioning youth with a serious mental illness in a community setting. While living in the house, residents benefit from programs created to teach them the critical life skills needed to function independently such as budgeting and money management, how to navigate the public transportation system and where to look for a job. Residents also benefit from the social activities of the program, helping them to fully integrate into the community.
The Clarendon Apartments, a four apartment complex for young adults, opened last year, as a partnership with ValueOptions, consumer family members and Child and Family Support Services (CFSS), a provider agency that runs both the Phoenix and Mesa locations. An integral part of the program's success is the emphasis on family involvement and the "natural support system" this creates for residents.
Since becoming a resident a year ago, one mother's son has benefited from the support services received. Her son is learning how to live and work within his community, through everyday input from his staff mentors.
"This adult mentor approach has brought a renewed sense of hope and optimism to our family. The 24-hour support staff, family and professionals all collaborate to assist my son in learning necessary life skills and education about mental illness. We are experiencing a renewed mother/son relationship as opposed to my past role as full time case manager and advocate," said the mother. "This pilot program has proven to be a great opportunity for young adults to transition into community living. I hope that ValueOptions will replicate this program for more young adults. This style of housing provides a safe and secure environment, while one ventures into the community."
Through these two community living support settings, ValueOptions has created an innovative environment meeting critical needs of young adults with a serious mental illness as they transition into adulthood and independent living. "The Clarendon Apartments and the Allen House are improving the lives of many young people. We hope to continue to expand this program based on its success and the increased demand for these types of services," said Rowland.
