Independence Center

A mainstreamed transitional and vocational training program for young adults with learning diabilities.

Location: Los Angeles, CA
Program Type:Post-secondary, mainstreamed, apartment based
Established: 1985
Age Range: 18-30
Specialties: Helping residents improve independent living, vocational, social, and social communication skills while they work and/or continue their education
Website: http://www.independencecenter.com/
Phone: (310) 202-7102


Founded in 1985, Independence Center is a mainstreamed, transitional apartment living program for individuals with learning disabilities which include, but are not limited to, LD, ADD, OCD, NLD and Asperger Syndrome, and who have life skills and social maturity that are not commensurate with the rest of their abilities.  Independence Center is not appropriate for individuals who are retarded or who have issues with alcohol or substance abuse.

Program participants, who come from all over the country, stay at least a year.  Our typical  length of stay is two or more years.  Residents work and/or continue their education while at IC.  They participate in on-site recreational activities which include, swimming, tennis, basketball and a fitness center.  Residents typically share a one bedroom/one bathroom apartment, learn how to get along with roommates and share responsibilities in their apartment.

We work in three main program areas – Independent Living Skills, Vocational Skills, which includes continuing education, and Social/Social communication skills. 

Staff are highly qualified.  All have at least a bachelor’s degree; many have advanced degrees.  While this is not a group that requires continuous supervision, on-site staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

As a nonprofit, we are able to offer financial aid to offset part of the program costs.

 
Vocational guidance and job placement assistance are integral parts of our program. The Job Club meets each morning, where our residents' interests and abilities are assessed and the job seeking process is begun. Our young people read classified ads, create a resume and participate in mock interviews. Their skills are improved through training programs, volunteer work and internships and, when ready, they are assisted as they seek employment.

Evening and weekend groups stress socialization and communication, including relationships, self-advocacy and problem solving.

Residents participate in a variety of activities. Swimming, basketball, tennis and physical fitness opportunities are available on-site. Weekend outings include community service, hikes, movies and trips to museums, theme parks and other locations.

How to Apply
The applicant and his or her family are invited to come to Independence Center for an intake interview with the director. They will receive information about the program, tour the facilities and be asked questions about themselves, separately and as a family.

Based on information received during the interview and written reports received from others who have worked with the applicant, a 3-day orientation visit may be scheduled, during which the young adult sleeps over for two nights and spends three days involved in program activities.

The visit enables the staff to assess the applicant's skills and allows him or her to get a sense of the program. Those who are considered appropriate - and who want to participate - are accepted into the program.

For More Information
Contact Independence Center at

• Web http://www.independencecenter.com/
• Phone (310) 202-7102
• Email judym@independencecenter.com

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