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Community-Based Services

Independent Living Skills & Aftercare

Providing additional support to youth aging out of foster care in Nebraska and Iowa

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Independent Living Skills for Nebraska Youth

Our Independent Living Skills (ILS) program supports young adults ages of 14-26 to help them as they transition from foster care to adulthood, while establishing a safe, nurturing, enduring relationship with ILS staff.

Youth who transition from foster care without support are at high risk of homelessness. ILS prepares them for adult living and provides life-skills attainment through creating an individualized service plan. Participants identify their goals and our specialized staff assist them in achieving their goals. Goals may include securing an apartment, completing and/or continuing education, finding and maintaining employment, managing finances, signing up for health insurance and obtaining a reliable means of transportation, amongst many others.

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“I will forever be grateful for the ILS team. They were very supportive and always able to point me in the right direction. I was connected to so many resources.” – Former ILS youth

Aftercare Services for Iowa Youth

Child Saving Institute is part of the Iowa Aftercare Services Network (IASN), offering voluntary support to Iowa youth ages 17 up to 23 who have aged out of foster care or other court-ordered placements. Many of these young adults are not fully equipped to handle the everyday challenges of adult life on their own. Aftercare services address both the immediate needs and long-term goals of these young people as they strive to become self-sufficient adults.

Youth can begin planning through Pre-Aftercare services several months prior to aging out. At age 17, they can meet with an Aftercare Self-Sufficiency Advocate (SSA) to explore their options, set goals, overcome barriers and develop skills for success.

Services Included:

  • Creating a self-sufficiency plan
  • Securing safe housing
  • Accessing emergency financial help
  • Finding healthcare providers
  • Pursuing college or job training
  • Connecting with mentors and community resources
  • Receiving a monthly housing stipend (PAL-eligible youth)

Contact the Iowa Aftercare Services Network (IASN) to get started or complete the form below to learn more.

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Mickey Crampton

Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center

Mickey Crampton, Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center, has dedicated her career to fostering growth and learning among educators while making a positive impact on young students' lives. With over four years at Spellman and a wealth of experience in early childhood education, Mickey's expertise and passion for teaching make her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Arriving in Nebraska from California to pursue collegiate softball, Mickey discovered her love for working with children through nannying and eventually transitioned to childcare while completing her education. Her unique perspective and hands-on experience as a lead teacher, along with a bachelor's and master’s degree in human development, have paved the way for her success in various roles within the early childhood education field.

Mickey values humanity as the key to a thriving community at Spellman. By cultivating a safe and empathetic environment for students, families and staff, she ensures a nurturing space for all.

In her free time, Mickey cherishes moments with her family, engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming, going for walks, and camping. With her unwavering dedication to education and community well-being, Mickey Crampton's wealth of experience and passion for teaching make her an exceptional leader at Spellman Child Development Center.