Department of Children's Services
Kathryn “Kate” O’Day, Commissioner

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There are currently IL Program Specialists in each of the regions of Tennessee. The IL Program Specialist's roles are:

• to provide case consultation to Youth, DCS Staff, Private Agency staff, and Foster Parents.
• to provide resources and tools for Independent Living Skills Training to eligible youth placed in DCS foster care.
• to train and assist with providing Independent Living Skills Assessments.
• to help facilitate regional and statewide Youth 4Youth groups and Youth Empowerment Activities.
• to provide assistance to DCS staff providing targeted case management for Youth in Post-Secondary and Post-Custody status.
• to monitor the eligibility for Post Custody programs and provide supporting documentation to the DCS Scholarship Coordinator.
• to maintain and update resource listings of the services provided in their region.
• to collaborate with community resources and college staff to develop programs of support and mentoring.
• to assist youth with their transitional, educational, and career plans.
• to attend Child and Family Team Meetings, and to assist with the development of Interdependent Living Plans.

To find the IL Specialist in your region, please click here.