|
Promoting the Readiness of Minors in Supplemental Security Income (CFDA 84.418P) Achieving Success in Promoting Readiness for Education and Employment (ASPIRE) Six western states have formed a consortium, to conduct the PROMISE experimental design. The ASPIRE project will recruit and enroll 2000 youth with mild to severe disabilities, ages 14 to 16, who receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and their families, and implement proven interventions to the 1000 enrolled in the treatment group. ASPIRE states of Arizona, Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Utah represent diverse populations, varied geography, and demography ranging from urban to rural to frontier and tribal living. ASPIRE will implement a coordinated set of interventions, services and supports to assist and empower youth to succeed in school, prepare for and obtain employment, become more self-determined and independent, and to assist their families in achieving greater financial self-sufficiency. Interventions include case management, benefits planning, paid employment prior to leaving school, self-determination for youth, as well as parent training and financial education for the families. All ASPIRE staff will be trained in the culture and values of poverty, cultural competency and clear verbal and written communication. A strong evaluation team, representing the Universities of Utah, Kansas and Montana, with experience in conducting similar demonstrations and an understanding of the western geography and culture, will design, implement, and conduct formative evaluation. The Utah State Office of Rehabilitation, in partnership with all disability, poverty and employment agencies in the six states, and public and private organizations, will empower youth and families to ASPIRE -- to dream, to imagine and to strive for a better life.
|
