With the increased risk of COVID-19 infections for individuals in congregate living, Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), Inc. strengthens its advocacy for community-based youth and family services alternatives. In 29 states and Washington, DC, YAP partners with youth justice, child welfare, education, behavioral health and developmental disabilities agencies to serve young people and families in their neighborhoods and homes.
YAP’s individualized service plans might include intensive mentoring from neighborhood-based Advocates, education and job training, behavioral health care, and assistance with basic needs. Lebanon, PA YAP’s services for young people with developmental disabilities have empowered 32-year-old Chris with skills to support himself, and in turn, serve others through the pandemic. Chris spoke to TheNeighborhoodAdvocate.org in our video interview.
