Programs and Services for Young Adults

Supporting Independence. Inspiring Creativity and Success.

More than 2 million young adults in the United States have a Serious Mental Illness that can affect their education and employment.*

Young Adult Services (YAS) mission is to assist individuals affected by serious mental illness and/or traumatic events, so they may reach their fullest potential. Bridges’ YAS program helps young adults ages 18 – 25, who may be transitioning out of DCF or foster care and have mental health needs, achieve the necessary skills for a more independent adult life. YAS program services are community based, supporting the individual in their own residence. Services include clinical, case management, social integration, educational and/or employment support and residential assistance.

*U.S. Government Accountability Office Report to Congressional Requestors, June 2008.

YAS Services Overview

  • Comprehensive mental health services
  • Primary care services
  • Wellness support
  • Assistance with choosing and maintaining safe, stable and affordable housing
  • Transportation assistance and training
  • Social and vocational programming
  • Vocational assessment, training and placement
  • Life skills training
  • 24-hour access to program staff

 What Young Adults Say About Us

“Bridges’ YAS staff is amazing to work with. They believe in my abilities.”

“As a young child I was abused and lived with foster families and then in group homes. My family suffered the effects of long term alcohol abuse and it was a traumatic experience for me. The YAS program has helped me tremendously.  I am better able to pursue my dream of a healthy and independent life.”


Residential Services

A variety of residential supports are provided, including transition services with short-term availability of staff up to 24 hours per day / 7 days per week. Staff typically visit clients in their apartments in order to assist, teach, and support them in activities which foster independence.


Vocational Training Program

YAS offers clients vocational training and helps young adults maintain employment by teaching business skills through its Bridges to Business program. Young adults work and learn with skilled instructors to create high quality original products for sale to the public in its client-operated coffee and gift shop, Café Boutique.


Creative Arts Program

Opportunities are available for young adults to explore their creative interests and develop talents and skills, including photography, music, drawing and painting, writing, community arts and events.


Low Key Cafe

An expressive arts forum that takes place monthly and is open to the community. Artists perform original music, comedy, poetry and dance. Open mic and performances by established singers and songwriters provide support and inspiration to all participants. Held at the Milford Christian Church Community Room, New Haven Avenue, Milford.





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