Transitioning between youth and adulthood brings many challenges – post-secondary education, housing and employment – all waiting on the horizon. Young adults with special needs, such as mental health disorders or mental retardation, may find moving from the child-serving systems to adult-serving systems particularly challenging. Young adults who have spent some of their lives in out-of-home placement sometimes face these challenges alone.

DHS is committed to helping transition-aged youth make smooth transitions to adulthood.

DHS is also interested in hearing ideas from youth who have personal experience in the human services system to improve services for children and youth and their families. The advisory body System Improvement Through Youth (SITY) provides that voice.

This section provides detailed information about these topics and more.

NEW! Anti-luring Tips
Helpful suggestions for youth, young adults and their parents about how to be aware and stay safe in a neighborhood setting.