Youth and Transition Services
PLEASE NOTE: Programming may be adjusted due to COVID-19.
Services are offered to youth and their families to support independent living goals through best practices and partnerships with schools, service agencies, and community organizations. Staff engage youth in activities that align with their skills and interests including recreation, employment, self-advocacy, and transition. Youth create a customized plan including tangible goals to achieve greater independence. Interactive Life Skills classes are offered to youth and young adults ages 13 to 24 looking to develop skills for independent living, competitive employment, or community-based living. Classes are free of charge and run on a school calendar year.
Click here to schedule an intake.
Hire Expectations
This program is a free supplemental support initiative for high school teachers to provide authentic employment experiences in and outside the classroom.
Next Steps Summer Program
The Next Steps Summer Program is a unique experience designed to prepare youth for high school and beyond. Students stay on the campus of The University of Toledo and are also paired with job sites in the community.
Employment
Employment-focused Life Skills classes touch on various job readiness skills. One-on-one assistance with skill development, resume building, interview preparation, and getting connected to Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Our Next Steps Summer Program provides a unique employment and independent living experience
Leadership
Leadership curriculum is offered to enhance core qualities of a leader. The Ability Center is a proud host of OOD’s Regional Youth Leadership Forum.
Transition
Resources and training appropriate for transition aged youth. One-on-one assistance with exploring post-secondary options, IEP/Transition Plan guidance, and future planning.
Independent Living/Life Skills
Independent living skills training including cooking and nutrition, financial management, sex education and more. Hands-on mentorship to secure transportation and housing options, budgeting, time-management, and activities of daily living.
Rural Opportunities
Located in Bryan, our office serves the four-county area of Defiance, Williams, Henry, and Fulton county. Programs and services are available including Youth Transition Services, Life Skills classes, Information & Referral services and. Assistive Technology/Medical Equipment drop off.
1425 East High Street
Suite 108
Bryan, OH 43506
Independent Living Plans (ILPs)
ILP’s are a guide to determine a consumer’s goals in the following areas: recreation, post-secondary or future planning, employment or self-advocacy, independent living, and family support, and how The Ability Center will assist in those goals. Consumers and/or parents meet with a staff member to complete the plan and develop appropriate goals.
Rec Club
Our Rec Club provides an opportunity for peers to connect and build social skills in a comfortable environment. Participants attend monthly community events including bowling, movies, Cedar Point trip, festivals, and local sporting events. You must be a participant in Life Skills to join Rec Club.
Girl Scouts
of Western Ohio
Engage your troop in learning about disabilities. This program is designed for grades K-12. Gain access to the Disability Awareness Patch by requesting more information below.
