Memphis Office of Youth Services - I AM INCLUDED (IAI)

AKA:

Youth Services, Mentorship, Disabilities, Social Group, Employment & Transition soft skills, self-advocacy, and preparation of independence

Description:

The !€œI AM INCLUDED!€ Program is for youth between the ages of 14-22; grades 8-12th with specific disabilities. This program is offered under the Memphis Office of Youth Services umbrella within the City of Memphis in each of the council districts. Our goal is to empower all children and reach out to those with disabilities because they are often left out of conversations. We believe that students with disabilities deserve the same opportunities and recognition as everyone else focusing in on the abilities.

The vision for our program is to help students prepare for the workforce, be knowledgeable of post-secondary options, and military careers with an overall goal of them becoming productive citizens of society. We hope that our program benefits students in a positive way and leads them down a path of success and self-confidence. I AM INCLUDED is a year-round development and enrichment program that focuses on Community Service, Leadership, Education, Entrepreneurship, and Perseverance. The I Am Included program embraces six different groups of Ambassadors: Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Blind and Visually Impaired, Specific Learning Disabilities and Intellectual Disorders, Autism and Down Syndrome.

Our groups meet weekly for an hour to engage in transitional opportunities to support the future of our youth. Each one of our groups are led by Youth Specialists that are experts in special education and are dedicated to the program goals and visions. Our staff not only teaches but mentor as well while working with our business partners. Year-Round Transitional topics include Self-Advocacy, Professional development, Financial Literacy, Post-Secondary Options, Conflict Resolution, Career Exploration, Goal Setting, Mental Health Awareness, Work-Readiness skills & emphasize the importance of Community Service monthly to keep our youth active in their neighborhoods. All ambassadors receive a monthly stipend based on their participation and educational GPA metrics within the program.

During the summer, we host a Summer Leadership Camp to keep students engaged and active during their summer break from traditional learning. I AM INCLUDED Ambassadors who are seniors in high school and complete the program successfully will have the opportunity to receive an internship within City Government or business entity who value the abilities of each, pending criteria. I Am Included aim to foster interest and enhance awareness throughout the City of Memphis.

Hours:

Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Intake Process:

Open Enrollment and recruitment phases happen throughout the year during each phase of the program. Applicants will be required to show proof of residency, Social Security Card, State issued photo ID, Proof of Education/GPA, IEP or 504 Plan and parental/guardian consent via intake packet. Applications along with all necessary documents are submitted and undergo an approval process overseen by the coordinator and leading team. This team ensures that we can accommodate the participant and provide comprehensive support to inner city exceptional youth.

Program Fees:

No Fee

Eligibility:

Youth must reside in the City of Memphis, be in grades 8-12th or age range 14-22 and provide after a brief overview of the participant and parent to ensure staff can cater to the youth with the select disability. NOTE: PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROGRAM ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE CITY OF MEMPHIS MPLOY SUMMER EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM.

Is Shelter?

No

Related Resource

Date of Official Change:

September 25, 2024

Volunteer Opportunities:

Adults & inclusive service partners are always needed to excel the I Am Included vision to build the independent youth.

Address Listings

Contacts

Phone Numbers

Legal Status:

City/County (Parish)