Interdependent Living Services (ILS) is a community-based program for youth and young adults ages 16 to 24 who may have developmental disabilities, mental health concerns, and social, emotional and behavioural challenges. Referrals are youth in the Children’s Services system in the Calgary Region 3 and with Stoney Child and Family Services.

Youth and young adults in ILS may have social competency deficits, emotional and behavioural problems, mental issues, and developmental disabilities or delays. Youth require support both in developing appropriate adaptive skills and self-direction necessary for future independence.

ILS provides a continuum of services ranging from 24-hour support and supervision (staffed models), supportive roommate, and youth transitioning to adulthood (YTA). Supports assist in finding the most appropriate living arrangement or job placement, working on life skills, improving social skills, and building healthy relationships. The young adult is encouraged to develop adaptive skills necessary to increase their self-reliance and independence.

Through various forms of teaching and training, youth receive the help and support necessary to learn multiple skill sets which enables independence, fosters self-confidence and develops the necessary skills for independence.

Our primary goal is to help provide the skills necessary to develop appropriate community independence.

There are a variety of placement options available. These may include:

• Glenbrook/Killarney Staffed Models: youth reside in 24-hour staffed programs (fourplexes) in the community. Residents live with a roommate or in individual apartments and are provided with a high level of support, skill teaching, and clinical support to achieve greater independence.
• Supportive Roommate: youth live with a roommate who is available for support with finances, community access, and skill teaching in a normalized community environment. Youth are typically referred from the staffed homes as a “step down” in support.
• Youth Transitioning to Adulthood (YTA): youth reside in the community in their own apartment and receive weekly support to assist with independent living skills and community access. Youth are typically referred from the Supportive Roommate model as a “step down” in support.

Typically, an individual’s participation in ILS will include support with:

• Developing social skills
• Community access
• Planning and preparing meals
• Budgeting and financial management
• Household management
• Guidance in life planning
• Emotional support and informal counselling
• Recreational activities
• Advocacy