NDDOHS launches website focuses on reaching adulthood

The North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Independent Living Program has launched a new website to help make the transition to adulthood easier. The ND Youth Web site can be found at www.nd.gov/ndyouth.

“This Web site was developed by older teens and young adults as a resource for others, especially youth receiving foster care, juvenile justice or mental health services who are now preparing to live on their own,” said Tara Muhlhauser, director of the Children and Family Services Division.

The ND Youth website contains 15 individual sections each filled with helpful information on independent living, money management, addiction recovery, careers, employment, cultural resources, housing, education, crisis management and more. Additionally, the site has more than 150 links to local and national organizations and services young people would find helpful in transitioning to adulthood. There are also special features including tips on job interviewing, how to find an apartment and “45 things to know before turning 18.”

Muhlhauser said the ND Youth Web site not only is a one-stop shop for information, but it also features a section on North Dakota Foster Care services.

Youth from North Dakota’s regional and state Independent Living Advisory Boards, in conjunction with Independent Living Coordinators, gathered and researched the content for the site. The ND Youth Web site was funded by a grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, whose mission is to help build better futures for disadvantaged children in the United States.

For more information on the ND Youth Web site, go to www.nd.gov/ndyouth.

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