What makes you an expert?
Young people who need IL programs have difficulties developing IL skills on their own, often stemming simply from a lack of experience. For these youth, freedom can be their worst enemy, but taking that freedom away means they cannot learn from their experiences. At YouthQuest, our program balances freedom with responsibility and skill development.

Why is this important?
Many youth have a difficult time transitioning to supporting themselves after system care. 4 years after "aging out" of the system,

• 25% have become homeless
• 42% have become parents themselves
• Less than half have graduated from high school
• Only 3% graduate from a 4-year college
• More than 80% are unable to support themselves

What kind of young adults come to YouthQuest?
All young people who need to learn how to beome independent are welcome at YouthQuest.  The program serves youth, aged 17-21, in the foster care system, juvenile justice system or those who are simply in need of intensive independent living training.

How do you save localities money?
Unlike typical independent living programs, YouthQuest has a unique license. Because of this, we are able to capitalize on a community-based service match rate rather than the group home (disincented) rate or the normal IL (neutral) rate.

How are you funded?
YouthQuest funding typically comes from CSA, 294 or private funding. Unfortunately, Medicaid will not pay for any type of IL program, including YouthQuest.

Are you a congregate care program?
YouthQuest is not a congregate care program. There are no more than 2 youth in a 2 bedroom condo, and placing a child at YouthQuest will not negatively affect a state agency's congregate care statistics.

Where are you located?
YouthQuest has 4 separate locations- Richmond, Newport News, Chesapeake, Northern Virginia (Prince William County), and Roanoke.

How much supervision do youth receive?
YouthQuest's Life Skills Coaches work with YouthQuest residents in individual and group settings throughout the day. Additionally, there are staff members on-site as well as 24-hour emergency services.

Do you provide transportation?
Yes, transportation is provided as needed to all of our residents.

Do you utilize the Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment?
Yes. The Ansell-Casey Life Skills Assessment is used to assess the individual needs of our resident and to formulate their transitional living plans.