The Stepping Stones program, created by Ryther’s Transitional Youth Services (TYS), is designed to help youth and young adults who are experiencing houselessness or housing instability and have been diagnosed with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (IDD). The program aims to support participants as they work toward stability through collaboration with a dedicated team of staff. Participants focus on achieving goals such as finding stable housing, accessing healthcare, connecting with peer support, and securing long-term benefits.

 

 

Who We Serve

Stepping Stones serves young individuals between the ages of 13 and 25 who are homeless or unstably housed, including those who may be couch-surfing, sleeping in cars, or facing other forms of instability. Eligibility also includes those with known or suspected Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities.

 

 

Program Features

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• Case Manager Support: A case manager coordinates services, ensuring participants are linked to the community resources and assistance they need.

• Peer Partner Guidance: Peer partners, who share similar life experiences, provide support and mentorship to help participants navigate challenges and reach their goals.

• Behavioral Health Therapists: Licensed therapists work with participants to promote emotional wellness and help with managing mental health challenges.

• Psychiatric Services: Psychiatry services are available to prescribe and manage medications to help with mental health stabilization.

• Psychological Testing: Participants receive psychological testing to diagnose intellectual or developmental disabilities and provide necessary clinical documentation.

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Program Goals

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• Support young people in obtaining stable housing and connecting with healthcare and peer support.

• Address emotional wellness and mental health through therapy and psychiatry services.

• Assist in the transition from youth services into adult systems by helping participants access long-term benefits and opportunities.

 

 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Stepping Stones, participants must meet the following criteria:

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• Age Range: 13–25 years old

• Housing Status: Homeless or unstably housed (including couch-surfing, car-sleeping, etc.)

• Disability Status: Known or suspected diagnosis of Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities

 

 

Program Benefits

Stepping Stones provides young individuals with a unique opportunity to access critical resources and support systems as they transition into adulthood, helping them break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. Our goal is to help participants find a path to stability and independence, while also addressing their specific mental health and disability needs.

 

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Enrollment and Contact Information

If you have questions about eligibility or want to learn more about the enrollment process, please contact any TYS staff member or reach out to our Intake Specialists at 206-517-0234.