Boys and Girls Village

Launch

Program overview

Boys & Girls Village welcomes The Launch Program to our Bridgeport & Milford campuses.  The Launch Program is an intensive community-based program for youth ages 14-17 in DCF foster care.  The program will provide support comprised of both the Casey Life Skills Assessments (CLSA) and learning modules as well as skill building interventions designed to improve outcomes and completion of vocational and educational programs while advancing in employment and developing and maintaining strong permanent supportive adult relationships.  

The Life Skill Specialist (LSS) in the Launch Program plays a pivotal role in guiding youth toward success!  By working closely with participants, the LSS assesses their strengths, challenges, and goals to create individualized plans tailored to each youth’s unique needs.  These assessments help identify the most suitable vocational and educational programs for the participants, launching them on a path toward self-reliance and independence!  The LSS will also provide ongoing support, ensuring that the youth can access the necessary resources, skills, and opportunities to thrive!

Our programming and skills training classes help teens learn basic life skills, understand money management, practice job seeking techniques, and build savings with the goal of achieving financial independence and becoming self-sufficient.  Program participants will also receive training in computer labs, restaurant quality kitchens, a forklift simulator, 3D printer, and more. 

Track 1 (for initial referral ages 14-15)
  • Casey Life Skills Assessment
  • Opportunity Passport Survey
  • Summer Youth Employment Referral
  • Start Essential Document Portfolio
Track 2 (for returning participants ages 16-17)
  • Full Opportunity Passport
  • Assistance with Job Applications
  • FAFSA
  • IDA Matching Eligibility
Level All

Launch is partnering with Level All a web-based platform built to help youth of all ages and pathways achieve their goals.  Level All is a personalized resource with comprehensive content, tools, and resources to guide youth every step of the way in planning their future.

  • Succeeding in High School
  • Vocational/Post Secondary Education
  • Career Planning
  • Building Financial Literacy

For more information or to make a referral, call (203) 690-5124 and ask to speak with the Launch program manager.