Participants, ages 18-24 at entry, are placed into scattered-site apartments in the city of Chicago with independent landlords. The Neon Youth program pays a rental subsidy directly to the landlord. The participants are provided with case management, clinical counseling, and employment case management, and referrals to other services such as education and legal. The program’s purpose is to help youth become self-sufficient, exit to permanent housing, to maintain or increase income, employment and/or benefits, to exit with a high school diploma or GED, and to increase independent living skills. At any time, this program houses 10 young people, and participants are eligible for rental subsidy for up to 24 months.
The program also provides employment support to youth enrolled in the transitional housing program as well as youth who are accessing outreach/drop-in services at a community partner facility. The employment program is designed to build partnerships with employers and directly connect youth in both programs to employment opportunities as well as support them in being successful in these placements. Staff assist youth with developing employment skills such as resume building and interview preparation through 1:1 and group meetings and connects youth to employment through job search, job fairs, and direct placement.
Referrals for the transitional housing program come from the Coordinated Entry System (CES). Referrals for the Outreach/Employment program come via community partners or individuals can reach out directly to the program contact for more information.
Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Address:
4822 N Broadway, 3rd Floor,
Chicago, IL 60640