LAUNCH Program

Empowering Youth to Build Skills, Connections, and a Path to Independence

The LAUNCH Program provides youth aged 14-17 with intensive, community-based support to help them succeed in education, employment, and personal growth. Through life skills assessments, personalized plans, and one-on-one guidance, the program equips participants with tools to thrive as they transition into adulthood.

Key program highlights include:

• Casey Life Skills Assessments (CLSA) to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Individualized Plans tailored to each youth’s needs and goals.
• A focus on developing permanent supportive relationships with caring adults

How Does the Program Work?

1. Assessment: Participants complete a CLSA and additional assessments to create a tailored plan.
2. Skill Building: Weekly sessions with staff and group activities to enhance life, educational, and job skills.
3. Connection to Resources: Guidance in accessing employment, education, and supportive services.
4. ​Ongoing Support: Regular check-ins and progress updates to ensure youth are achieving their goals.

How Long is the Program?

6 Months Minimum: Youth may participate for up to 1 year.
Participants who disengage may re-enroll after 6 months

Program Tracks

Program Tracks Youth are placed into one of two tracks based on age:

Track 1 (Ages 14-15):
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• Life skills work in real-world settings. 
• Development of an Essential Document Portfolio (e.g., ID, Social Security card).
• Opportunity Passport Survey and preparation for summer youth employment.

Track 2 (Ages 16-17):​

• Financial capability training and access to matched IDA bank accounts (earn up to $1,000 annually).
• Support with job applications, FAFSA, and college applications.
• Updated Essential Document Portfolio and job training opportunities

Benefits of the LAUNCH program 

• One-on-One Support: Dedicated Life Skills Specialists (LSS) provide weekly guidance and assistance.
• Group Activities: Sessions on financial literacy, civic engagement, and monthly prosocial activities.
•  Stipends: Earn $20/hour for participating in Youth Advisory Board (YAB) activities and $20/session for attending life skills groups or activities.
• Transportation: Provided to program sites and activities as needed.
• Financial Incentives:  Eligible youth receive $100 upon enrollment in their IDA bank account. o Save wages in the IDA account and receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $1,000 annually

Join the Program!
The LAUNCH Program is here to guide you on your path to independence. Whether it’s finding a job, planning for college, or building lifelong skills, we’re here to help every step of the way!