How We Work
Our comprehensive approach to supporting former foster youth through every stage of their journey to independence and home ownership
Our Sustainable Model
Village of America operates on an innovative social enterprise model that creates a self-sustaining ecosystem. We combine affordable housing development with employment opportunities through our call center, generating revenue to support our mission while providing jobs for community residents.
Sustainable Community Development
Affordable Housing
Quality apartments with below-market rents
Call Center Jobs
Employment opportunities for residents
Revenue Generation
Sustainable funding for operations
Community Partnerships
Additional services through local organizations
Our Comprehensive Process
Supporting former foster youth through every stage of their journey to independence
At Village of America, we've developed a structured yet flexible approach to support former foster youth. Our process is designed to provide immediate stability while building toward long-term independence through personalized support and community integration.
Initial Assessment & Coordinated Entry
Our process begins with a thorough assessment to understand each individual's unique situation, strengths, and needs. This initial step ensures we can provide the most appropriate support from day one.
Coordinated Entry System
Every applicant will be added to the Coordinated Entry System, which helps match individuals with the most appropriate housing and services based on their specific needs and vulnerability. This system ensures fair access to resources across our community.
- Standardized assessment of housing barriers and service needs
- Prioritization based on vulnerability and length of homelessness
- Connection to appropriate housing resources and support services
- Streamlined referral process to partner organizations
- Comprehensive needs assessment and vulnerability evaluation
- Documentation review and eligibility verification
- Initial safety and stability planning
- Connection to immediate resources and emergency support if needed
- Development of preliminary action plan
Personalized Support Planning
Based on the initial assessment, we work with each participant to develop a comprehensive, personalized support plan that addresses their specific goals and challenges.
- Individualized goal setting in housing, education, employment, and wellness
- Identification of strengths, resources, and support networks
- Development of measurable objectives and timelines
- Assignment of a dedicated case manager for ongoing support
- Coordination with external service providers and community partners
- Regular plan review and adjustment based on progress
Housing Placement & Stabilization
We provide housing options that match each individual's current needs and readiness for independence, with support levels that decrease as stability increases.
- Placement in appropriate housing based on assessment results
- 24/7 support in transitional housing settings
- Assistance with move-in costs, furniture, and household essentials
- Housing navigation and landlord mediation services
- Regular housing stability check-ins and support
- Financial assistance for rent, utilities, and housing-related expenses
Comprehensive Service Implementation
Participants engage with our comprehensive service programs designed to address all aspects of independent living and personal development.
- Education and career development programs
- Mental health and wellness services
- Life skills training and financial literacy education
- Healthcare navigation and insurance assistance
- Social and community integration activities
- Peer support and mentorship opportunities
Progress Monitoring & Adjustment
We regularly assess progress toward goals and adjust support plans as needed to ensure continued growth and success.
- Monthly progress reviews with case manager
- Regular assessment of goal achievement and barriers
- Adjustment of services and support levels based on changing needs
- Crisis intervention and problem-solving support
- Celebration of milestones and achievements
- Documentation of progress for future reference and reporting
Transition to Independence & Home Ownership
As participants build skills and stability, we support their transition to greater independence and help them achieve the ultimate goal of home ownership, creating lasting generational wealth.
Our Home Ownership Program
In the final stage of our program, we help qualified participants transition from renting to home ownership through our innovative pathway to ownership program. This includes:
- Financial counseling and credit building assistance
- Down payment assistance programs and grants
- Home buyer education and mortgage readiness programs
- Connections to affordable mortgage products and lenders
- Post-purchase support and maintenance resources
- Gradual reduction of support services as independence increases
- Transition planning for move to independent housing
- Connection to community resources and ongoing support networks
- Alumni program participation and peer mentorship opportunities
- Follow-up support for 12+ months after program completion
- Pathway to home ownership for qualified participants
- Celebration of achievement and program completion
Our Development Process
How we create and sustain affordable housing communities
Property Acquisition
Strategic identification and purchase of existing apartment communities or land for new development in high-need areas.
Renovation & Improvement
Comprehensive upgrades to ensure quality, energy-efficient, and modern living spaces that residents can be proud of.
Community Integration
Establishing partnerships with local service providers and community organizations to support resident success.
Sustainable Operations
Ongoing management funded through call center revenue and strategic partnerships, ensuring long-term viability.
Our Impact Goals
Creating measurable positive outcomes for our communities
Program Timeline
Typical progression through our comprehensive support program
Initial Assessment & Entry
Days 1-30Comprehensive evaluation, coordinated entry system registration, and development of initial support plan.
Housing Stabilization
Months 1-3Placement in appropriate housing, intensive case management, and establishment of basic stability.
Skill Building & Growth
Months 3-12Active participation in education, employment, and life skills programs with regular progress monitoring.
Advanced Independence
Months 12-24Transition to reduced support, increased self-sufficiency, and preparation for program completion.
Home Ownership Pathway
Months 18+For qualified participants, transition to home ownership with financial counseling and down payment assistance.
Alumni Support
OngoingContinued connection to community resources, peer support, and access to alumni network.
Who We Serve
Our comprehensive services are available to former foster youth who meet these criteria
Ages 18 and Up
We serve former foster youth of all ages, recognizing that need doesn't end at 24
Former Foster Youth
Individuals who aged out of foster care, were adopted from care, or emancipated from the system
Experiencing Housing Instability
Currently homeless, at risk of homelessness, or in unstable housing situations
Jacksonville Area
Currently serving the Northeast Florida region with plans for national expansion
Frequently Asked Questions
The Coordinated Entry System is a standardized process used to assess, prioritize, and connect individuals experiencing homelessness with appropriate housing and services. When you apply to Village of America, you'll be assessed using this system to determine your level of need and match you with the most suitable resources.
While each individual's journey is unique, most participants spend 18-24 months in our comprehensive program. The initial assessment and housing placement typically occur within the first 30 days, with ongoing support and services continuing throughout the program duration.
We regularly reassess and adjust support plans based on changing needs and circumstances. Your case manager will work with you to modify your plan as needed, whether that means increasing support during difficult times or reducing services as you gain independence.
Yes! Our ultimate goal is to help qualified participants transition from renting to home ownership through our innovative pathway to ownership program. This includes financial counseling, credit building, down payment assistance, home buyer education, and connections to affordable mortgage products.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you're ready to start the process or just want to learn more about how we can help, our team is here to support you every step of the way.