The Horizons School

Results: Data from recent program completers reveal that two-thirds learned five necessary skills: steps to reach their career goal, preparing a work history and resume, identifying current job opportunities for which they qualify, preparing for job interviews, and completing job shadows and a student internship. The same number of completers work at least part-time for wages; half held paid jobs for six months or longer. The five most frequently reported job-related skills performed by program completers are attending each scheduled workday, responding well to the supervisor’s instructions, following directions to complete tasks, working as a team member, and managing time at work or school. The majority (80%) report satisfaction with their current job or internship, and 94% would recommend the employment and community living training program to peers. Further, 94% of recent program completers live independently in the community, alone or with a roommate. Two-thirds of alumni respondents report the ability to eat healthy meals, maintain personal friendships, and manage laundry. One-half report dressing appropriately for the situation, maintaining good personal hygiene, scheduling clinical appointments, and managing their medication. It is also useful to gather outcome data from families of young adult alumni. 2019 data from 20 parents revealed 80% of program completers work at least part-time for wages; the remainder is unpaid interns or community volunteers. The majority (85%) have held a paid job for six months or longer. Ninety percent are satisfied with the alumni’s current job or training program. Parents identified most useful employment skills learned in the youth transition program as professionalism, time management, and workplace communication. All would recommend the employment and community living training program to other families.!

Target demographics: young adults with disabilities who desire to develop skills for work and living independence

Direct beneficiaries per year: 30 young women and men with disabilities and more than 4 dozen college student mentors

Geographic areas served: Birmingham, Alabama and enroll young adults with learning and other disabilities who hail from all U.S. states

Programs: an innovative community-based licensed residential READI learning program enabling college and career success since 1991!