Image
Christmas Wishlist 2025
Image

Programs

Residential, Transitional Living, and Independent Living Programs

Our residential programs provide 24/7 comprehensive care tailored specifically for female adolescents ages 12 to 18. Each cottage offers a warm, family-style living environment that includes a shared living area, kitchen, and laundry facilities, creating a space that feels like home.

Every cottage is staffed by a dedicated team of trained professionals who work collaboratively with each resi- dent and her family or custodian to develop a personalized Individual Service Plan (ISP). This team-based, trauma-informed approach ensures a consistent, therapeutic environment where innovative strategies sup- port each youth in reaching her full potential.

Residents attend public school, GED programs, or alternative academic pathways better suited to their needs. Our Education Specialist works closely with school systems to ensure seamless transitions for new students and continued academic support. Recognizing that many of our residents have experienced difficul ties in traditional classroom settings, we also provide a targeted tutoring program designed to strengthen their academic performance and build confidence in their educational journey.

At the heart of our mission is the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to grow, heal, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment. Through our continuum of care, we offer three unique pro- grams-Residential, Transitional Living, and Independent Living-each designed to meet the developmental

Image
Image
Image

Transitional Living Program (TLP) (Ages 16-19)

The Transitional Living Program supports youth ages 16 to 19 who are preparing for adulthood and increased independence. This semi-structured program is designed for young people who are ready to take greater responsibility for their daily routines while con- tinuing to receive therapeutic support and life skills training. Residents live in a supportive setting that encourages accountability and growth

Participants receive work readiness training, including résumé development, interview practice, and job search guidance. They also learn essential independent living skills such as budgeting, meal planning, time management, and credit education. Clinical services continue with weekly individual therapy, medication management, and psychoeducation tailored to their unique needs. Youth are encouraged to seek and maintain part-time employment as they build financial responsibility and confidence. Education planning is emphasized, whether through high school completion, GED prep, or postsecondary readiness. Cultural and recreational activities are regularly offered to support well-rounded development, identity formation, and community connection. The TLP serves as a critical bridge for young people to move from care to self-sufficiency.

Independent Living Program
(ILP) (Ages 18-21)

The Independent Living Program is designed for young people 18 and older who are ready to take the final step toward full indepen dence. Participants must meet eligibility requirements, including having a high school diploma or GED, completing a Scattered Site Assessment, and receiving approval from the Independent Living Specialist and County Director

Eligible youth must meet one of the following criteria work full-time (40 hours/week); attend college full-time (12 or more credit hours per semester); or work part-time (at least 30 hours/week) while attending college part-time (6 or more credit hours). Once approved, participants move into traditional one-bedroom apartments in the community of their choosing. Each youth is assigned a Life Coach who offers ongoing guidance and support with budgeting, goal setting, employment, academics, and community navigation. This program emphasizes real-world responsibility while ensuring that participants have the tools and mentorship needed to succeed. The Independent Living Program equips young people to create stable, empowered futures grounded in independence and personal achievement.

Our Maximum Watchful Oversight/MWO program provides residential care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The program serves female adolescents ages 12-18 years old.  Each cottage provides a family style living model with a common living area, kitchen, and laundry facility.

Each cottage is staffed by a professional team which works together with the resident and family/custodian to establish an Individual Service Plan (ISP) for each resident. The team model helps create a consistent therapeutic program enabling staff to find creative ways to help each resident reach her goals and achieve her potential.

All residents must attend public school. Some residents attend GED school or other appropriate academic settings to engage them towards their success. We have an Education Specialist on staff that works closely with the schools to maintain a good relationship and to make the transition into a new school as supportive as possible for the incoming student. Since many of our residents have not had prior success in school, we have created a tutoring program which provides opportunities for students to improve their academic success.

PROGRAM GOALS

  • Reunification with family when possible
  • Healthy coping abilities
  • SMART goal setting and supportive interventions
  • Positive community connections and experiences
  • Enhanced daily living skills
  • Academic achievement

CRITERIA

  • Ages 12 – 18 with MWO waiver
  • Must be able to attend public school setting
  • No current substance or self harm /harm to others behaviors
  • Must make a full commitment to the program

APPLICATION PROCESS

  • You may apply by speaking with the Intake Department at 770-483-3535 or email at intake@elksaidmore.com
  • We currently review the DFCS Universal Application and trauma assessment/psychological
  • You may fax a completed application to 770-648-7320 or mail an application to: 2394 Morrison Road Conyers, Georgia 3009
For questions regarding admission in the residential program, transitional living program and independent living program please contact us at 770-483-3535 or by email at our centralized email: intake@elksaidmore.com

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM CONSIDERATION CRITERIA

Girls age 12 – 18 (younger ages considered with an age waiver). Residents 18- 21 years of age are considered for our Independent Living Program. Referrals are accepted through the Department of Family and Children Services, and the Multi Agency Alliance for Children (MAAC).

Favorable Criteria:

Youth who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment and have experienced trauma and need a safe place to heal from the emotional effects of the trauma; of average intelligence and able to function in a public-school setting.

Unfavorable Criteria:

Chemically dependent individuals, those who have exhibited aggressive or dangerous behaviors to self or others (needing 24-hour, secure supervision); individuals with histories of dangerous crimes (arson, assault, weapons charges, etc.); severely developmentally delayed and/or neurological impaired youth, individuals expressing active suicidal ideations, youth who have not been stabilized in psychotropic medications (60 days or more) or on medications which cannot be safely administered and monitored by cottage staff, those diseased to the point of endangering other residents and/or staff. It is the policy of Elks Aidmore, Inc., that no residents shall be allowed to smoke or use any other tobacco products.

Therapeutic Foster Care

Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) Program Overview

Eks Aidmore’s Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) Program is a specialized.community-based initiative designed to support children and young adults ages 0-21who require out-of-home placement due to serious emotional and behavioral challenges, psychiatric diagnoses, involvement with the juvenile justice system, developmental delays, or individualized educational plans (EPs). This program is tailored for youth in foster care with complex emotional, behavioral, or medical needs, providing a nurturing family environment combined with structured, therapeutic support to prevent placement in more restrictive institutional settings.

Program Highlights:

• Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Training: Therapeutic foster parents and staff receive extensive pre-service and annual training rooted in trauma-informed and child-centered care practices. This equips caregivers to address the unique challenges and needs of the children and youth placed in their homes.
• Individualized, Integrated Therapeutic Services: Each child and youth is guided by an Individualized Service Plan (ISP) that includes therapy (individual, family, and group as needed) through approved Medicaid providers. Additional wraparound services, such as behavioral aides, family intervention, and community support partners, are provided based on individual needs.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding the deep impact of trauma, the TFC Program emphasizes creating safe, stable environments where foster families are empowered with the tools and skills necessary to foster healing and emotional growth
• Holistic Skill Development and Enrichment: Children and youth are encouraged to engage in extracurricular and community-based activities that build social skills, promote self-confidence, and support personal development.

Specialized Care for Complex-Needs Youth

The TFC Program supports children, adolescents, and young adults with significant trauma histories, developmental and intellectual disabilities, physical chal- lenges, and complex medical conditions. Foster parents undergo a rigorous selection process, in-depth training, and ongoing professional support to ensure the highest standard of care that promotes resilience and well-being.

Collaborative, Child-Centered Approach

Elks Aidmore’s TFC Program operates with a strong team-based philosophy, working in partnership with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) case managers, therapists, birth families, family consultants, and behavioral specialists. This collaborative approach ensures every child and youth receives coordinated, wraparound services and is actively supported on their journey toward permanency and stability.
For questions regarding admission in the residential program, transitional living program and independent living program please contact us at 770-483-3535 or by email at our centralized email: intake@elksaidmore.com

THERAPUTIC FOSTER CARE CONSIDERATION CRITERIA

Boys and girls age 4-18 Referrals are accepted through the Department of Family and Children Services, and the Multi Agency Alliance for Children (MAAC).

Favorable Criteria:

Youth who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment and have experienced trauma and need a safe place to heal from the emotional effects of the trauma; of average intelligence and able to function in a public-school setting.

Unfavorable Criteria:

Chemically dependent individuals, those who have exhibited aggressive or dangerous behaviors to self or others (needing 24-hour, secure supervision); individuals with histories of dangerous crimes (arson, assault, weapons charges, etc.); severely developmentally delayed and/or neurological impaired youth, individuals expressing active suicidal ideations, youth who have not been stabilized in psychotropic medications (60 days or more) or on medications which cannot be safely administered and monitored by foster parents, those diseased to the point of endangering other members in the household. It is the policy of Elks Aidmore, Inc., that no youth shall be allowed to smoke or use any other tobacco products.
Image
Through this trauma-informed, family-focused model, the Thera- peutic Foster Care Program em- powers children and youth to heal, grow, and thrive in a supportive home environment, building the foundation for brighter futures.
Image

Program Goals: Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC)

Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) Program Overview
Elks Aidmore’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program is guided by a set of core goals that reflect our commitment to the well-being, stability, and long-term success of the children and youth we serve. These goals are central to creating a nurturing, trauma-informed, and family-centered care experience.

Provide a Therapeutic Family Environment:

Create safe, stable, and emotionally supportive foster homes that promote healing, trust, and a sense of belonging.

Deliver Individualized, Trauma-Informed Care:

Address the unique emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs of each child and youth through personalized service plans that integrate clinical, educational, and supportive services.

Promote Permanency and Stability:

Work collaboratively with the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS), therapists, and birth families to achieve timely, stable permanency outcomes-whether through reunification, adoption, or independent living.

Improve Behavioral and Emotional Regulation:

Equip children and youth with coping strategies and therapeutic tools to manage trauma, regulate emotions, and reduce behavioral disruptions.

Enhance Developmental and Educational Achievement:

Support academic progress, developmental growth, and age-appropriate milestones through tailored services, advocacy, and close coordination with schools and specialists.

Foster Social and Life Skills Development:

Encourage engagement in extracurricular activities and community involvement to build resilience, self-confidence, and healthy peer relationships.

Empower and Support Therapeutic Foster Families:

Provide foster parents with in-depth training, ongoing guidance, and trauma-informed strategies to ensure they are well-equipped to meet the complex needs of the children and youth in their care.

Prevent Placement Disruptions:

Offer proactive, community-based interventions and support services to stabilize placements and minimize transitions to higher levels of care.

Address Health and Medical Needs:

Ensure comprehensive care coordination and access to necessary medical, dental, and mental health
services-especially for children and youth with intensive health needs.

Advocate for Holistic Well-Being:

Promote overall wellness by addressing the mental, emotional, physical, and social health of every child and youth through an integrated and collaborative approach.

For questions regarding admission in the therapeutic foster care program please contact us at 770-483-3535 or by email at our centralized email: intake@elksaidmore.com 

THERAPUTIC FOSTER CARE CONSIDERATION CRITERIA

Boys and girls age 4-18 Referrals are accepted through the Department of Family and Children Services, and the Multi Agency Alliance for Children (MAAC).

Favorable Criteria: 

Youth who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment and have experienced trauma and need a safe place to heal from the emotional effects of the trauma; of average intelligence and able to function in a public-school setting.

Unfavorable Criteria:

Chemically dependent individuals, those who have exhibited aggressive or dangerous behaviors to self or others (needing 24-hour, secure supervision); individuals with histories of dangerous crimes (arson, assault, weapons charges, etc.); severely developmentally delayed and/or neurological impaired youth, individuals expressing active suicidal ideations, youth who have not been stabilized in psychotropic medications (60 days or more) or on medications which cannot be safely administered and monitored by foster parents, those diseased to the point of endangering other members in the household. It is the policy of Elks Aidmore, Inc., that no youth shall be allowed to smoke or use any other tobacco products.

These goals reflect the TFC Program’s mission: to help children and youth overcome adversity, build resilience, and thrive in a compassionate, family-centered environment.