Services
for Transition, Education and Preparation toward Success (STEPS)-
“Effective
relationship skills increase the likelihood of establishing rapport
with clients, gaining
their participation and avoiding drop out” (Gambrill, 2006).
Centrally
located at the 651 Prospect Street, in New Haven, CT St. Francis Home
for Children’s STEPS is an employment orientated program that
is supported by necessary life skills instruction. Funded by the New
Haven Workforce Alliance, the STEPS model is used to increase self-empowerment
and
gain career orientated skills necessary to achieve social, education
and economical sustainability. Through outreach to communities, schools,
courts and other community service providers, the STEPS program services
twenty-four youth annually. The targeted population served is youth
ages 14-
18years old who are economically disadvantaged and currently at risk
of dropping out of school, homelessness, teen pregnancy, engaging in
criminal activity and substance abuse. The participants recruited for
participation in the STEPS program reside throughout New Haven County
including
Hamden, West Haven, North Haven and Milford. A computer lab is available
on site to assist youth with school assignments, resume writing, job
search and college enrollment, etc. A full-time Program Coordinator
assesses each participant, is involved with each youth from intake to
completion of the program including providing aftercare and follow-up.
Assessment finding are utilized to assist with the
development of the youth’s Collaborative Plan and to offer guidance
and assistance in reaching their attainable goals.
