Auberle has always been concerned with addressing the needs of those people who have nowhere else to turn. One of the neediest populations that Auberle has been actively trying to reach is young men, ages 16 to 21, who are currently homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless. Auberle started a transitional housing program in January, 2006, to serve this very specific population. The program is called Movin’ On, and is located in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. The program is unique in its approach to meeting the needs of the young men in its care and currently is the only program of its kind in Allegheny County.

Youth homelessness is an on-going national crisis. Issues of homelessness have been directly linked to a lack of preparation for independence, and it is estimated that approximately 1 million young adults that fall into this category are challenged by lack of education, child abuse, incarceration, and lack of adequate family support.

“Often, people simply don’t understand the concept of transitional housing,” says Movin’ On program director Tim Kelly. “It is much more comprehensive than Independent Skills Training. It is a long-term solution.”

In parts of the United States, transitional housing programs have been instituted to combat the issues that plague the young adult male population. These programs provide comprehensive service and support through providers like Auberle. They teach young adults how to function more autonomously than they would if left on their own. Ultimately, each client who is served in these programs is expected to transition from the program to suitable independent housing.

Auberle Creates Movin’ On Transitional Living Program for Allegheny County

Movin’ On was created to provide an answer to help these troubled young adults find their way to a truly independent life. Movin’ On is a transitional housing facility in its purest form; the intent of the staff is to provide clients of the program with all of the means and support necessary to transition from potential homelessness to completely autonomous living. Up to 10 clients may be served at any one time, and clients may take part in the program for up to 24 months or to the age of 21 which ever comes first.

Auberle’s Movin’ On program is different than any other program currently being offered because of its unique philosophy. Movin’ On is based in the belief that young adults can achieve a greater level of success when they are in control of their own future. This translates into specific training, including educational, vocational, and life skills training.

What is truly different is the approach that Auberle’s Movin’ On employs when helping the clients apply these skills to their lives. Movin’ On uses a holistic approach with the clients, providing a stable living environment in addition to the training. Clients have a “safety net” so that they have enough time to learn. The program operates with a positive peer culture that fosters responsibility and respect. Clients are expected to share in the daily upkeep of the home, and take part in activities like cooking, shopping, and laundry.

“It’s the same as learning to drive a car,” says Rae Willie, Case Manager at Movin’ On. “We don’t just teach by giving the clients a book to read, we give them the keys to the car and let them learn by doing, while we sit next to them and help guide them through the process. This way, the clients learn to build on their own strengths and overcome their weaknesses while getting ready for real life situations. With Movin’ On, they don’t have to fear failure if they don’t get it right the first time.”

Auberle’s Movin’ On has very specific criteria for those who wish to participate in the program. Only males between the ages of 16 and 21 are eligible, and they must have a high school diploma or be willing to pursue a GED. Clients must also agree to get a job and must be willing to save a portion of what they earn to prepare for life on their own.

Clients may not be receiving assistance from CYF while residing in the program, which is why Movin’ On is a such a valuable place for those who are aging out of the system with no place to go.

Movin’ On will accept young men who are involved with the juvenile justice system, with the exception of those who are currently experiencing issues in the following areas: aggressive behavior, drug or alcohol dependency, mental impairment, sexual perpetration, or fire starting.

Auberle’s Movin’ On represents a new approach to meeting the critical needs of the homeless. Every client is asked to say goodbye to old habits, adopt new values, and to think with vision. Clients of the program soon realize that Movin’ On is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help them succeed.

To learn more about Auberle’s Movin’ On program, call Tim Kelly or Rae Willie at (412) 469-3686.

Also check out the Movin' On Newsletter for more information. (in pdf format)