As students approach graduation from high school, they are often faced with fear and uncertainty regarding their future. The same holds true for students with disabilities. These students must learn to navigate their way through various adult social service systems, take charge of their own health care and decisions, and seek employment.

Parents of children with disabilities often view their role as that of protective, nurturing caregiver, and struggle with the idea of their child living independently. As a result, these children are often deprived of the opportunity to develop skills that others take for granted, such as cooking, cleaning, budgeting, accessing public transportation, and becoming self-reliant.

School districts offer an academic setting for students with disabilities, but that curriculum is restricted by class size and scheduling. Real-life situations that students may encounter are difficult to simulate in a classroom.

The TeenLink Project is a partnership between the Children's Development Center, the Center for Independent Living of Northcentral PA, and Montoursville School District to provide life skills training and experience for students with special needs.

TeenLink's Mission is to provide a program that enables students with disabilities to effectively make the move from school to independent living in an atmosphere that provides adequate supports while minimizing risks, enabling them to make the transition from "special student" to "productive citizen". This will be achieved by providing a home where students have the opportunity to practice independent living skills in a real-world environment.

Our objective is to work with area school districts, social service agencies, families, and individuals with disabilities to create a community-based transition program with a holistic approach toward independence.

Ribbon-cutting and a dedication ceremony followed by an Open House are scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, 2008 from 2:00 to 6:00 P.M.  For additional information, please contact the Children’s Development Center: 326-0565x101.