Young Adult Program
The vision of the Young Adult Program is to equip all students with independence and purpose through community engagement and meaningful employment opportunities.
About the Program
Elkhart Community Schools' Young Adult Program (YAP) supports young adults with special needs, ages 18–22, by connecting them to meaningful job opportunities that highlight their abilities—not their limitations. The program emphasizes the development of essential life skills such as managing money, telling time, and practicing social interaction. After completing initial training, students are paired with job coaches and placed in paid internships. A variety of in-school and community-based opportunities are available to ensure each student finds a placement suited to their strengths and goals.
Program Focus
YAP emphasizes real-world learning through community outings and volunteer job placements that reinforce classroom instruction and life skills. Students have served at locations such as The Cove, Council on Aging, Feed the Children, Elkhart Civic Theatre, ECS Cafeterias, ECS Building Services, and many more. These experiences foster independence, confidence, and job readiness.
Enrollment
Students are eligible to enter the Young Adult Program after completing a four-year high school experience and earning a Certificate of Completion or Alternative Diploma. As students approach the end of high school, their case conference committee will assess whether continued educational support is needed to further develop life skills and prepare for employment.
Hart City Coffee Company
Have you heard of Hart City Coffee Company? This non-profit business offers students the opportunity to learn valuable job skills by grinding, packaging, and delivering coffee. Operated on a donation basis, Hart City provides hands-on, meaningful work experiences. Learn more here: Hart City Coffee Company.