The Just in Time "Life Skills Coach" Pilot program, a partnership of the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation, KGTV/San Diego's 10 and Casey Family Programs, connects former foster youth with "Life Skills Coaches" -- working professionals who serve as resources and provide support to young adults beginning their new lives as independent adults.

The goal of the pilot project is to help meet the critical needs of the young adults by utilizing the experience and expertise of working professionals who can help the former foster youth help themselves work through the everyday obstacles they face.

The pilot program will focus on the following key areas:

Transportation Basics

Getting a driver's license
Shopping for car insurance
How to shop for a car

Housing and Community Resources

How to find an affordable apartment in San Diego
Working with a landlord
What a deposit is

Money Management

How to open a checking/savings account
Applying for credit cards
Creating a budget/spending plan

Job Coaching

Young adults may "job shadow" Life skills Coach
Receive information about what employers look for
How to put together a resume, dress appropriately and interview effectively

Unlike traditional mentoring programs, the Life Skills Coaching program will allow for the coaches and young adults to communicate and share ideas in a very flexible manner, knowing that both adults are very busy with work, families, school and other daily activities. Many times, the coach will be involved in a specific project, or serve as a resource to the young adult as he/she needs help dealing with a specific issue, or challenge they may currently face regarding one of the four key areas.

To find out more information about the Just in Time Life Skills Coaching program, please call the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation at (858) 278-4400.