ABOUT OSAAT
One Step at A Time Lake County helped at risk young adults in Lake County successfully transition to independent, self-sufficient adults by providing safe housing and wrap around, targeted support.
OUR PLAN
One Step at a Time Lake County helped young adults, ages 18-24 years old, navigate all of the steps to becoming self supporting adults by securing, safe and stable transitional housing. We also worked with each young adult to help them pick a path, navigate all available resources, and help them stay on their chosen path.
WHO DO WE SERVE?
One Step at a Time Lake County provided safe and affordable housing in a shared living space for young adults ages 18-24 who have been impacted or aged out of the foster care system.
HOW?
By providing access to secure safe, stable, transitional housing and individualized guidance as youth navigate resources and set out on their chosen path to adulthood and achieving their goals.
CHALLENGES
Though funding and resources exist to assist this population, Lake County lacks adequate housing options for this population. Because of limited housing options, the individual faces an increased risk of homelessness and unemployment.
Even though this group is eligible for housing vouchers, very few, if any property owners will rent to 18 year olds who lack credit and who lack co-signers.
FILLING THE NEED
One Step at a Time Lake County provided safe and affordable housing in a shared living space for young adults ages 18-24 who have been impacted or aged out of the foster care system.
The home was furnished with a shared living room, dinging room, basement with laundry facilities, and a kitchen with the basic appliances (stove, fridge etc.). Residents were required to pay a Program Fee which includes their own bedroom, utilities, and use of wifi internet.
When the resident moved in, they met with a volunteer (with a background in social services) who completes their intake. Then, they received an orientation and were shown around the home and how to access things.
Every resident was assigned a volunteer who met with them weekly to assist them in developing their goals (Employment, Driving, Budgeting, Household Maintenance, Cooking/Cleaning/Grocery Shopping, Self-care, Education, Communication as well as Building Healthy and supportive relationships). These weekly meetings with also provided referrals to outside agencies that can assist with the above mentioned things.
NEXT STEPS
OSAATLC is no longer planning any upcoming fundraisers and is was dissolved as of January 1, 2026.
