Ross’ Story

Ross, a former student at SCO’s Westbrook Preparatory School, is a motivated and engaging young man who has Asperger syndrome. “I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy,” says Ross. “On the other hand, sometimes I am unaware of other people’s feelings. I can be impulsive, and I do get overwhelmed. ”

Ross had difficulty adapting at his previous public school due to these challenges. However, Westbrook’s residential school setting gave Ross the opportunity to work on his social skills and develop strategies to help him avoid feeling overwhelmed.

One key element of life at Westbrook is the internship program. While students find comfort and build confidence living and learning with other teens who have similar challenges, they know that they need to prepare themselves to communicate and work well with all kinds of people. Ross’s first internship was at Sports Authority, and he held another at St. Brigid’s Elementary School Camp where he found talking with children about sports very rewarding.

His interest in sports led Ross to his next internship at WCWP 88.1 FM, the college radio station at CW Post. He ran the audio control sound board at sporting events, made guest appearances on a college sports talk show and researched sports information for use on air. He enjoyed his experience so much that he decided to study communications in college.

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Scattered Site Supportive Housing Program

The Scattered Site Supportive Housing Program provides housing and transitional services in Queens for young adults 18-25 years of age who have spent at least one year past their 16th birthday in foster care and are at risk of street or sheltered homelessness. The program provides housing while young adults transition from foster care to independence.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Young adults formerly in foster care who are at risk of homelessness

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

Age 18-25; must have spent at least one year past their 16th birthday in foster care and are at risk of street or sheltered homelessness

How to Access this Program or Service

NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) Teen Support Unit

 

This program is associated with...

Foster Care

For over 50 years, SCO's Foster Care practice has been helping children and their families grow, heal and thrive. We find safe, temporary families for children and teens throughout New York City and Long Island. Read More

Success Stories

Ross’ Story

Westbrook Preparatory School

“I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy” Learn More

Tatiania

Bronx Arena High School

"When somebody comes to you and they just really want to learn it's like you know what? I know it. I'm going to teach you." Learn More

148

students in our transfer high schools who were at risk of dropping out graduated with a Regents diploma

Last year, we helped

418

adults become employed heads of households