WE BELIEVE IN CHANGE

At First Point Services, located in Santa Monica, California, our core mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to achieve their full potential, secure fulfilling employment, and actively engage in their communities. Within this framework, “Preparing for life after high school” is not just a transition phase; it represents a critical and pivotal juncture where the foundational work for independent adulthood truly begins, directly impacting every aspect of our mission.

The concept of “Preparing for life after high school” for First Point Services encompasses a comprehensive and individualized approach to transitioning young adults with IDD from the structured environment of secondary education to the diverse opportunities and responsibilities of adult life. This involves a proactive, person-centered planning process that anticipates future needs and builds the necessary skills and supports for success.

This topic is profoundly relevant to First Point Services’ goals because:

  • Achieving Full Potential (Laying the Groundwork):

    • The period immediately following high school is crucial for fostering personal growth and self-determination. Our “preparation” focuses on empowering individuals to identify their aspirations, strengths, and preferences. This groundwork is essential for them to achieve their full potential in adulthood, as it sets the trajectory for all subsequent development, including self-advocacy and goal setting.

  • Securing Fulfilling Employment (Early Intervention & Vocational Readiness):

    • Effective post-high school preparation directly impacts a participant’s ability to secure fulfilling employment. This phase allows for early vocational exploration, development of work-readiness skills (e.g., punctuality, teamwork, task completion), resume building, and initial job search strategies. Connecting with First Point Services during or immediately after high school enables a seamless transition into employment training and job placement services, leveraging the momentum from their educational journey.

  • Active Community Engagement (Transitioning Socially):

    • High school often provides a built-in social structure. “Preparing for life after high school” focuses on ensuring a smooth transition into new social spheres, enabling participants to actively engage in their communities. This includes developing social skills for adult interactions, identifying community groups or recreational activities aligned with their interests in Santa Monica, and fostering independence in accessing local resources and transportation. Without this preparation, individuals risk social isolation post-graduation.

  • Building Independence and Self-Sufficiency:

    • This transitional period is fundamental for developing critical independent living skills. Whether it’s managing personal finances, navigating public transit in Santa Monica, understanding health and wellness, or making daily life decisions, comprehensive preparation ensures individuals are equipped for greater autonomy. This proactive skill-building is key to reducing long-term reliance on family or state services.

  • Addressing Family and Systemic Transitions:

    • The transition from high school is also a significant change for families and requires navigating new adult service systems. First Point Services supports families in understanding available adult resources, advocating for their young adult’s needs, and adjusting their roles to foster greater independence. This collective preparation mitigates stress and ensures a cohesive support network for the young adult.

As of today, First Point Services views “Preparing for life after high school” as a paramount opportunity to intervene early and strategically. By investing in this crucial transitional phase, we can proactively equip young adults with IDD with the skills, confidence, and connections necessary to not only navigate adulthood but to truly thrive, thereby realizing our mission in Santa Monica and beyond.

EVERY MOMENT COUNTS

Join Us in Making a Difference

Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver.

At First Point Services, we understand that every moment counts in an individual’s journey toward achieving their full potential and thriving in their community. Don’t let another moment pass by; join us in empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build fulfilling lives. Your support, whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy, directly impacts the lives we touch. Act now, because every moment counts toward building a more inclusive and supportive community.

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At First Point Services, we believe everyone has a role to play in creating a more inclusive world. Whether you’re passionate about supporting individuals with ID/DD (Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities), seeking meaningful volunteer opportunities, or simply want to stay informed, we have ways for you to get involved.