Project KIN (Kids In Need) is a therapeutic treatment home providing youth (approximately ages 12-19) with a safe and appropriate living environment, known as a Host Home which is a natural family setting integrating youth into the community. The clients in Project KIN live with a Host family, recruited, trained by IEP, and are licensed by the Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing. Our Host Home families accommodate the needs of our ever changing population of adolescents. Project KIN offers both short-term (up to six months) and long-term (six months through high school graduation) placements. While in Project KIN clients receive weekly therapy, case management and life skills training. Overall, Project KIN encourages our clients to become active, positive members of the community.
Step Ahead is a Host Home program with specialized therapeutic services for six youth (approximately ages 15 – 18), who have completed an intensive treatment program for youth with sexually inappropriate behaviors and are in need of a step-down from a highly structured residential setting. Step Ahead’s focus is to successfully assist with reintegration into community living while continuing the treatment process. Step Ahead clients are referred through the New Jersey Childrens System of Care (CSOC). While in program they will reside in one of our host homes, attend an appropriate school setting, and will receive a complete service package including, continued intensive specific treatment, individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy (if applicable), case management, and independent living skills will be assessed. Step Ahead placement duration is not concretely prescribed and is determined by each client’s individual needs. Overall, Step Ahead encourages youth to become active, positive members of the community, while following the guidelines of the program and the conditions of probation.
Project Stepping Stone is a voluntary transitional living program for five young adults (ages 18-21) who are homeless or aging out of the “system”. Project Stepping Stone is designed to provide supportive services and independent living skills for our residents to assist them on their path to adulthood. All residents are required to maintain employment, and are encouraged to further their education while developing the appropriate life skills while residing in a supervised program apartment.