Requirements and FAQs

Who We Serve

We serve at-risk youth between the ages of 18 and 24 in the Treasure Valley. We emphasize helping those who have been impacted by foster care but also help those who are facing significant barriers to independence.

Am I ready for the JEMfriends Independent Living Program?

  • Are you ready to work together with a team towards independence?
  • Are you self-motivated to take steps towards independence?
  • Are you willing to work a job?
  • Are you willing to complete high school education?

If you can answer “yes” to these questions, you are ready to apply!!

  FAQs

Q1: What do I need to do to apply for the JEMfriends Independent Living Program?

A: You need to complete and submit the online application form.

Q2: Do I have to age-out of foster care to enter the JEMfriends Independent Living Program?

A: No. JEMfriends serves at-risk youth who are facing significant barriers to independence. If you are unsure if you are eligible for JEMfriends support, we encourage you to fill out our inquiry form.

 

Q3: At what age can I receive JEMfriends support?

A: Youth ages 18-24 are eligible for our Independent Living Program.

 

Q4: What if I have not graduated High School?

A: Youth do not have to complete high school before entering the JEMfriends Independent Living Program.  We often support youth as they are finishing high school or pursuing their GED.

 

Q5: What are the Life Skills classes like?

A: Life skills classes are held every Thursday. Classes are taught by volunteers from the community. Class topics vary from week to week, covering important skills such as budgeting, health, mindset, communication, taxes, relationships, vehicle maintenance, etc.

 

Q6: Is internet available at the house?

A: Yes, JEMfriends provides internet at each house for the use of the youth living there.

 

Q7: Is there a curfew at the house?

A: No, there is not a curfew at the house.

 

Q8: What are the house rules?

A: The following are the house rules:

  • Absolutely no drugs, alcohol, smoking (or vaping), or weapons (in house or on property) are allowed.
  • Participation in chore rotations is expected to keep the home clean.
  • Lending out household items is not allowed.
  • No members of the opposite sex or any people of romantic interest are allowed in the bedrooms.
  • No sexual activity is allowed in the home.
  • No friends of the opposite sex are allowed at the house without the direct permission of the RA.
  • Quiet Hours (12 midnight-7am on weekends/10pm-7am on weekdays) must be respected.
  • No parties are allowed. (Over 4 guests at a time is a party.)
  • All guests must leave by 12 midnight on weekends/10 pm on weekday nights.
  • Youth must inform their RA if they will not be coming home at night.
  • Physical altercations and/or verbal disrespect will lead to dismissal from the program.

Q9: How will I get to work and/or school if I don’t have a car?

A: JEMfriends does its best to support JEMyouth with transportation services (through volunteers, bus, or Uber/Lyft) to work, interviews, health appointments, and JEMfriends related activities until they are transportation independent.

 

Q10: Are pets allowed at the house?

A: No, pets are not allowed at the house.

 

Q11: Are my friends allowed at the house?

A: Friends are allowed at the house, provided that the youth follows the house expectations (refer to Q8) and that the RA feels it is advisable.  Most youth with good habits, such as good communication and respect for house rules, are given permission to have friends over.