Creating A Future Together (CRAFT):
Life skills Development Program
Creating A Future Together (CrAFT), is a Life Skills development program designed to meet the specific needs of system-involved and at-risk teens and young adults ages 14-22. Often times for this population, the transitional phase of life comes with the expectation to abruptly take control of their own lives. Unfortunately, given circumstances far beyond their control, most are unprepared to do so.
Research shows that:
20% of system-involved or at-risk youth become homeless the day they turn 18.
34% will lack a diploma or a GED by age 21.
Only half will have gainful employment by the age of 24.
A mere 6% will have a driver’s license, and even fewer will have a vehicle to utilize for transportation.
22% will be incarcerated and 11% will be treated for substance abuse by the age of 21.
Over 27% will become parents by the age of 21, with half of the children birthed placed into kinship care or the foster care system.
CRAFT aims to Change these Stats!
CRAFT programming involves essential preparation for adult living lessons and integrates highly interactive skill building opportunities, individualized coaching and case management support, while developing and fostering long term connections with trusted adults. Program components include life skills training, education and career support, community resource brokering, and coaching aimed at helping program participants achieve independence and stability, increase educational and economic outcomes, improve personal relationships, and overall social-emotional functioning.
We help our program participants pursue opportunities for growth and development based on their own expressed needs. Some common areas that youth hope to develop are:
Independent Living: This is one of the most prevalent areas for growth among our participants. Young people come to us hoping to gain real-world knowledge and the practical skills needed to lead well-rounded, fulfilling, self-sufficient lives. Specific goals in this area are unique to each participant, therefore every action plan is developed to ensure each individual the opportunity to chart their own pathway to success.
Academic/Career Pursuits: The majority of our youth want to continue their education and/or pursue employment or career opportunities. We make it possible by supporting them through application and enrollment processes and assisting with accessing needed resources.
Social and Mental Wellbeing: Like most of us, young people also desire to balance their emotional and physical well-being, even when they experience difficulties articulating it. This includes developing and maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships, managing their emotional and mental health, learning responsible behaviors, and effectively managing their lives overall. CRAFT helps participants accomplish this by providing access to supportive counseling, specialized coaching, and individualized case management services.
Our specialized program offers the resources and support necessary to successfully navigate the critical shift from adolescence into adulthood.
Eligibility, Enrollment and Cost
Participation in the program is voluntary and services are provided at no cost when funding is available. Eligible young people are between the ages of 14 and 22 years old. Program staff will hold an initial assessment interview with those interested in participating in the program to identify participant needs and goals, and provide a program overview, including requirements and expectations.
Youth can self-refer, be referred by case workers, school officials, courts or attorneys, family members, etc.
For more information call 832-509-4192 or email us at info@thebetterprojecttx.org