Independent Living
Moving youth in foster care toward independent adulthood.
In partnership with the Alabama Department of Human Resources
The Independent Living program provides youth preparing to exit foster care with resources, education, community, and connections to support them in their transition. Youth are connected to helpful educational resources, namely Fostering Hope and the Alabama Education and Training Voucher Program (ETV).
Year-round activities are designed to increase their independent living skills and develop positive peer relationships.
Training topics include:
- Career counseling
- Educational coaching
- Budgeting
- Healthy decision-making
- Managing responsibilities
Youth have a seat at the table.
The Independent Living team is intentionally comprised of experienced social workers, individuals with lived experience in the foster care system, and a youth panel of program participants known as the DREAM Ambassadors.
This team model ensures our programming is comprehensive and impactful.
Program Services
Graduation Celebration
Independent Living’s Annual Graduation Celebration takes place on the first Saturday in May each year, honoring Alabama’s foster youth who have reached a significant milestone, graduating from high school or obtaining their GED. This inspiring event recognizes their resilience, hard work, and determination as they transition into adulthood. Surrounded by mentors, supporters, and peers, graduates are celebrated with a formal ceremony, keynote speakers, and well-deserved recognition for their hard won achievements.
Beyond the celebration, IL hosts an Annual Grad Bag Campaign to ensure these young adults step into their next chapter with the essentials they need for success. Many youth in foster care transition into adulthood without basic household items, making this initiative a crucial form of support. More importantly, it serves as a physical reminder that our community is standing with them and believes in their power to achieve their dreams. With the help of generous donors, each graduate receives a durable piece of luggage filled with bedding, towels, kitchen essentials, and personal care items—helping them start their journey with confidence. You can make a difference by contributing a monetary donation or purchasing items from their Amazon Wish List to directly support these graduates. Give today and be part of their success story! Tap the buttons below to make your gift.
DREAM Ambassadors
DREAM Ambassadors have the opportunity to be the voice and face of foster care in Alabama. Their goals are:
- To make a difference in the lives of Alabama’s foster youth.
- To be a mentor to youth in foster care.
- To promote leadership skills in Alabama’s foster youth.
- To educate and promote current foster care policies.
- To advocate for policy change or improvements in the current foster care system.
- To educate foster youth on the positive benefits of being in foster care.
Youth 17-19 years old currently in foster care in Alabama can apply.
Camp LIFE
Each summer, we host two camps for up to 200 Independent Living youth ages 14-20. At camp, the youth build self-confidence, teamwork skills, positive peer and adult connections, and independent living skills.
Networking Conference
Each spring, we host a statewide Independent Living Networking Conference to educate and connect professionals who work with youth in foster care. Alabama Department of Human Resources staff, Independent Living partners, and professionals such as residential providers, Independent Living contract providers, and private professionals come together to learn how to better support youth in foster care and make helpful connections.
ILConnect
ILConnect facilitates the community of Independent Living youth, county workers, providers, and foster parents across Alabama. It’s a place for youth to share resources and ideas with each other, as well as see what resources and events are available for them.
IL youth and alumni can get plugged in via the IL Connect app!
Partners in the Work
