VIDEO
Ace has been involved with the Independent Living Program (ILP) at Family Services of NW PA for three years. She participates in Career Pathways, the ILP Housing Program, and the North Star Mentoring program.
"Getting into the Independent Living Program has helped me with my anxiety, it's helped me find better ways to cope with it," said Ace. "I'm finally getting the mental help that I need and I'm getting help with safety like I've needed for years."
Career Pathways is a program of ILP that helps young adults learn about potential career choices. As a result of her participation, Ace decided to study marine biology after high school.
The Housing Program provides ILP-rented apartments that teach young adults the skills necessary to be able to live independently. "Living on my own and being in the program has opened a lot of doors," said Ace. "I am more independent now, I'm more comfortable in my own skin, and I'm safer,"
Ace is matched with Casey through the North Star Mentoring Program of ILP. "Ace is phenomenal," said Casey. "She's got goals on what she wants to achieve and she's doing really well. I see really great things for her future."
Overall, Ace is very proud of all she's learned and experienced through ILP at Family Services of NW PA. "Thanks to the Independent Living Program, I am close to people that I care very much about," said Ace. "And I'm not as likely to fall back into unhealthy habits like I was before."
The Independent Living Program (ILP) helps youth ages 14-23 years old who are in out-of-home placement make the transition to become independent, self-sufficient and productive adults. Click here to learn more.
