Independent Living Program (ILP)

The Independent Living Program (ILP) empowers foster and probation youth in San Luis Obispo County to transition successfully into adulthood. ILP provides voluntary, individualized services that support education, employment, life skills, and long-term stability. Services are available until a youth’s 21st birthday.
 

What is the process?

Inquire about eligibility

To determine if you are eligible to participate in ILP, please contact your assigned social worker or probation officer. If you do not know who your social worker or probation officer is, or if you have already exited foster care, please call our intake hotline at 805-781-5437 or the ILP Program directly at 805-781-3535. You may also walk in to any San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services office, which are open Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (closed on County-observed holidays), or visit www.slofostercare.com; click on Resources, then visit the Foster Youth tab. 
 

Who is eligible?

Youth may participate if they meet one of the following:

  • Ages 16 through 20 (up to the day before their 21st birthday) and currently or formerly in foster care through San Luis Obispo County Child Welfare Services or Juvenile Probation
  • Former dependents who entered Kin-GAP between ages 16 and 18.
  • Former dependents who entered a Non-Related Legal Guardianship (NRLG) after age 8 and received permanent placement services.
  • Coastal Valley Academy (CVA) youth ages 16–20 (up to the day before their 21st birthday). Must be referred by a Probation Officer.

When and where is this service offered?

Youth must be referred by their County Social Worker or Probation Officer.

Location, directions and hours of operation

Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information

Monday - Friday 8-5


1086 East Grand Avenue
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Tel: (805) 474-2000

Monday - Friday 8-5


9630 El Camino Real
Atascadero, CA 93422

Tel: (805) 461-6000

Monday - Friday 8-5


600 Quintana Road
Morro Bay , CA 93442

Tel: (805) 772-6405

Fax: (805) 772-6409

Monday - Friday 8-5


681 West Tefft Street Suite 1
Nipomo, CA 93444

Tel: (805) 931-1800

Monday - Friday 8-5


406 Spring Street
Paso Robles, CA 93446

Tel: (805) 237-3110

Monday - Friday 8-5


3433 South Higuera
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Tel: (805) 781-1600

FAQS

ILP helps youth develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to live independently and thrive in the community.
  • Individualized Case Management: A dedicated case manager provides regular support to help youth identify and reach personal goals.
  • Life Skills Training: Interactive workshops on topics such as transportation, stress management, cooking, health, and relationships.
  • Education Support: Guidance with post-secondary options, financial aid, scholarships, and connecting with school resources.
  • Employment Support: Job readiness, resume writing, interview preparation, and connections to career programs.
  • Housing Assistance: Help locating stable housing and preparing for independent living.
  • Financial Skills: Support for budgeting, saving, and managing expenses.
  • Community Engagement: Opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and community partners.
  • Leadership and Advocacy: Participation in youth leadership and advocacy programs, including the California Youth Connection (CYC) and Speakers Bureau.
  • Mentoring: Matches with caring adults through local programs such as CASA or partner agencies.
  • Senior Activities: Assistance for high school seniors to participate in milestone events such as graduation and prom.
  • Meeting with an ILP Case Manager at least once a month
  • Attending monthly Independent Life Skills Workshops
  • Participating in ILP social and community events
  • Providing feedback on services and program activities
  • Working toward personal independence goals
  • Life Skills Classes (Cuesta College): For youth ages 16–17, covering employment, education, financial literacy, and daily living skills
  • Youth Empowerment Strategies for Success (YESS): For youth ages 18–21, focused on leadership, education, and goal-setting
  • California Youth Connection (CYC): For youth ages 14–24, offering opportunities to advocate for change in the child welfare system
  • Speakers Bureau: ILP youth share experiences to raise awareness and educate the community
  • Special Events: Includes Youth Wellness and Resource Fair, College and Career Night, Awards Night, and Making Proud Choices (with CAPSLO) 

ILP services are delivered in partnership with Family Care Network, Inc. (FCNI). Referrals must come through San Luis Obispo County Child Welfare Services or Juvenile Probation before ILP staff can provide direct services.

Ask your County Social Worker or Probation Officer to submit an ILP referral. Once received, staff will contact you directly.

No. ILP participation is voluntary, but youth are encouraged to participate to prepare for independent living.
No. All ILP services, activities, and workshops are free.
Yes. Youth who were in foster care or probation after age 16 may still qualify up to age 21.
ILP provides help with education, employment, housing, financial literacy, and building connections in the community.
ILP services are provided by Family Care Network, Inc. (FCNI) in partnership with San Luis Obispo County Child Welfare Services. Referrals must come through CWS or Probation.