Since the early 1980s, AIM Independent Living Center has supported and promoted the inclusion of students and young adults in training and skills building designed to produce successful and enduring work experiences. Through relationships with local high schools and BOCES, AIM partnered to expand services for young adults with disabilities throughout the areas of Steuben, Chemung and Schuyler counties. Services to students and young adults are strengthened also through AIM's collaborative efforts with other agencies and governmental parties, creating solid supports as those in transition search for meaning in their private and work life. Ultimately, the goal is to assist students and young adults in honing life and work skills while exploring employment opportunities within their local communities to smooth their transition into adult life - and to provide the support needed to sustain meaningful change.

Vocational Exploration and Training are the cornerstones of AIM's programming for youth and young adults with disabilities. Exploration and observation of a variety of jobs and work settings are made available as well as placement in work settings with training and job coaching.

Life skills training, a building block of the independent living movement, serves to expose students to the appropriate skills needed to live independently. These skills trainings are offered through AIM’s Training Department. Please visit the AIM web page on Training to fully understand the trainings offered in peer and/or individually supported environments.

Student and young adult peer group situations offer ways to participate in peer support, local social events, activities that increase social awareness and skills building, and much more. The goal of the peer groups is to promote the healthy development of productive members of society who are proud of their achievements and contributions. Because education and knowledge are the keys to this kind of development, their importance is emphasized, as is the need to socially enjoy other young adults of the same ages and backgrounds.

The AIM Transition Academy, a stand-alone environment dedicated to serving students, parents, and educators, provides on-site training and social integration; a resource room for parents; and a place for educators to learn more about working with independent living and students and young adults with disability.

For more information on Transition Services and the Transition Academy, please contact Wendy Watkins 1.888.962.8244 ext. 223 wwatkins@aimcil.com, or Becky Gilbert 1.888.962.8244 ext. 211 bgilbert@aimcil.com