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Independent Living Program

Teens Reaching Adult Independent Living (TRAIL)

Pathway Family Services’ independent living program is aptly named TRAIL, Teens Reaching Adult Independent Living. The TRAIL program is designed for young adults aged 16 to 21 who are ready to enter a phase of care focused on transitioning to independent living and eventual release from DCF custody TRAIL residents live in fully furnished, move-in ready apartments where they can safely practice independence while still having access to support when needed. Through hands-on learning, residents master essential life skills such as grocery shopping and meal preparation, laundry and apartment upkeep, budgeting and financial management, job readiness and career exploration, pursing a high school diploma or higher education, and accessing healthcare and therapeutic services.

Each resident works closely with their  Case Management Provider, identified support network, and TRAIL staff to create a personalized, person-centered service plan tailored to their goals. These plans evolve as residents grow in confidence and competence, ensuring that each step forward is meaningful and empowering.

The ultimate goal of TRAIL is to equip our young adult residents with the knowledge, experience, and support they need to successfully transition out of DCF custody into independent adulthood. At TRAIL, we’re not just preparing for the future – we’re building it, one confident step at a time.

For referrals and additional information on TRAIL, call (785) 861-7400

Educational Services

Education is a key part of the TRAIL experience. Young adult residents without a high school diploma or GED are enrolled in an education program to help them reach that goal. Residents are encouraged to continue learning through vocational training or college courses.

Employment and Finances

Our TRAIL residents are expected to work during their time in the program. Work hours are determined in collaboration with the Independent Living Supervisor, based on the individual’s educational goals. For those not currently employed, TRAIL offers Employment Enhancement Activities to build job readiness and professional skills. Residents also receive hands-on financial training, including budgeting and saving. Residents receive a start-up and weekly allowance that allows them to purchase groceries and develop responsible money management habits.

Staff Interactions

TRAIL staff actively support residents’ development through skill-building, mentorship, and personalized guidance. They lead twice-monthly, on-site life skills groups using evidence-based curriculum adapted from Project LIFE, and provide case coordination services that include service planning, referrals, and job retention support. Every interaction is designed to help residents grow into confident, capable, and independent adults.

Placement Criteria

To be eligible for the TRAIL program, young adults must meet the following criteria:

  • Referral: Must be referred by their Case Management Provider (CMP) and complete a pre-placement interview.
  • Age: Between 16 and 21 years old.
  • Custody Status: In the custody of DCF with a current or upcoming case plan of APPLA.
  • Life Skills: Demonstrates basic knowledge of essential life skills.
  • Education: Actively working toward a high school diploma or equivalent (if not already obtained).
  • Placement History: Shows some stability in previous placements.
  • Employment Readiness: Demonstrates the ability and willingness to seek and maintain employment.
  • Independent Living: Willing and able to live independently with limited on-site staff support.
  • Therapeutic Engagement: Open to participating in therapeutic services and able to self-regulate.

Each referral is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine if the young adult’s needs and behaviors align with program criteria.

 

Program Goals

To successfully discharge the TRAIL program, residents must complete at least 4 out of 6 program goals:

  1. Earn a high school diploma or GED
  2. Maintain employment for 90 of the past 12o days
  3. Achieve 80% of service plan goals
  4. Maintain contact with an approved mentor
  5. Save at least $1,500 in a personal savings account
  6. Secure safe housing and written their letter to their judge requesting to be released from custody.

Trail Services

  • On-Site Therapy Services: Individual therapy and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) therapy.
  • On-Site Medication Management Services
  • Cell Phones: Residents are provided with a cell phone and are required to have active service.
  • On-Site Wi-Fi: Available for all residents.
  • Evidence Based Life Skills Groups: Facilitated by our TRAIL Independent Living Support Workers (ILSWs). The average length of our TRAIL ILSWs is 5.87 years.
  • On-Site Laundry: Accessible to all residents.
  • Fully Furnished Apartments: Equipped with all essential items.