Our Moving On Project (MOP) is a transitional living apartment program that assists males, ages 16 to 21, in developing the skills needed to live independently. For a 12- to 18-month period, the Moving On Project provides DCF-referred youth with a safe, caring, and nurturing environment, as well as practical instruction.
A young man must express a clear commitment to the MOP before he is granted admission. The program emphasizes responsibility, accountability, and respect, therefore, all participants must sign a contract outlining his responsibilities. Once admitted, he is assigned a case manager, who meets with him at least once a week. Supervision is intense as a youth adjusts to his new environment and gradually decreases as his decision-making skills improve.
The MOP is located in an apartment building in Manchester. The young men reside in two-bedroom apartments, while staff offices occupy space on the first floor. Conveniently located on a bus line, the apartments are accessible to employment opportunities, stores, offices, banks, and schools.
Case managers develop an individualized transitional program for each resident. Instruction and assistance, both formal and informal, are provided individually and in a group setting. Tutors and mentors are assigned when needed. Topics covered may include:
The MOP provides a practice environment for the real world. Young men are taught a variety of life skills and become acquainted with useful resources in the community. The goal of the program is to teach each resident to set a life plan for now and for the future, and to strive to reach his full potential.
The Bridge's Moving On Project welcomes donations of the items below to furnish its transitional living apartments. If you can help, please call us at 860.521.8035. We need:
*We request that all items please be in good and/or working condition. Thank you.
Key staff include a program director, two full-time, transitional-living coordinators and an educational/vocational specialist. Moving On staff reflect the racial and ethnic background of the residents. For further information or to make a referral, contact 860.643.7888.