Transitional age youth are a vulnerable population who typically live in poverty and have low levels of education, which negatively impact their ability to adjust successfully to adult life. Youth exiting various systems of care are faced with the abrupt cessation of essential supports and services. Existing services are inadequate, leaving this population at risk for many negative outcomes.

The purpose of this thesis project was to write a grant to expand services for transitional age youth in Sonoma County. The Sonoma County Health Services, Mental Health Division, Transitional Age Youth (TAY) Intensive Services Program is a Full Service Partnership funded by the Mental Health Services Act. The California Wellness Foundation was selected as the most appropriate funding source for this project. Based on an evidence-based model, the proposed program would implement groups for youth, family, and community stakeholders, and increase the number of youth receiving tiered services.