Youth Transitions to Adulthood

Transition Plan:

Start early for transition planning. A formal transition plan should become part of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) before your 14th birthday. The transition plan should be person-centered, reflect the student’s interests and skills, and include transition goals. You may want to include your Targeted Case Manager (TCM) in the planning process, if one is assigned. Talk to your school to find out more about transition planning.

Pre-ETS:

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are provided in school for students ages 16 to 21. Services are designed to provide an early start at job exploration and to assist students with disabilities in making the transition from school to competitive, integrated employment. For referral to the Pre-ETS Transition Specialist serving your community, you may call 866-213-9079 or visit www.dcf.ks.gov.

Special Needs Trusts/ABLE Account:

Consider setting up a Special Needs Trust or ABLE account as a way to set aside money for future disability related expenses while still protecting access to government benefits. It’s important to consult with an attorney or a certified financial planner, preferable one with special needs planning experience, to learn about the options that would work best for your situation.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a Federal income supplement program funded by general tax revenues (not Social Security taxes) designed to help individuals who are aged, blink, or disabled who have little or no income. This supplement is intended to be used for basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. To apply call 1-800-772-1213 or visit www.ssa.gov. Note if you are currently receiving SSI but about to turn 18 you have to reapply for adult SSI. This can be done up to three months prior to your 18th birthday.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR):

VR helps Kansas citizens with disabilities meet their employment goals. Services are customized according to each person’s unique needs, skills, interests and abilities. For more information visit www.dcf.ks.gov or call 1-866-213-9079 or TTY 785-368-7478.

Wichita Workforce Center:

The Workforce Centers of South Central Kansas are a one-stop shop for job seekers and employers. They can help you with your resume, practice interview skills and other services to help you find a job. The center is located at 2021 N. Amidon, Suite 100, Wichita, KS or your can call them at 1-877-509-6757.

Agency/Program Tours

As you plan to transition to adulthood it’s important to know what is available and the eligibility requirements for adult services (which may include medical testing). Each student is welcome to contact individual agencies for program information and/or tours or work with your TCM, if one is assigned. The following is a short list of options available:

Work and/or Job Coaching
Residential Supports
Day Programs
Mentoring/Educational
Social Opportunities

For more information regarding what is available please contact your TCM or contact an options counselor at SCDDO by calling 316-660-7630.

Moving out?

Do you need assistance with the costs of moving? Funds may be requested to address the needs of a person served in Sedgwick County, who does not have the ability to pay for costs associated with housing start-up (pots, pans, furniture), rent and/or utility deposits. For information regarding funding available please contact your TCM or a Service Access Specialist at SCDDO.