DCS has contracted with Arizona’s Children Association to provide transition services to eligible youth who have exited foster care and wish to return.

Eligible youth are ages 18, 19 or 20, and previously a ward of the county or tribal court at age 16 or older. The TILP program is for youth in this age group who no longer have a DCS caseworker and now wish to return for additional support. They “self-refer” to this program through the Young Adult Services (YAS) Referral Line. This program will confirm eligibility and respond to the youth within 7 days.

The program for youth age 16 to 18 who are still currently in foster care is called the Young Adult Program and also provides assistance with life skills.

This handout (PDF) outlines both of the TILP and Young Adult Programs that Arizona Children’s Association manages (as contracted by DCS).

Services may include:

– Life skills assessment and training, (group, 1:1)

 – Educational and vocational assistance, counseling

– Assistance in applying for the Education and Training Voucher

 – Assistance in locating/maintain housing, including some direct financial assistance

– Employment support, i.e. assistance in development of pre-employment skills resume writing, job search, etc. 

Financial assistance – a limited amount of funding is available to assist with costs related to education, employment, housing and other areas related to self-sufficiency for youth 18 to 21.

Additional information from DCS is outlined on the state website: Young Adult Program.