Social workers, case managers, and referral sources: Learn what defines quality transitional housing for foster youth. Comprehensive guide to standards, evaluation criteria, and best practices.


Introduction: Why Quality Standards Matter

As a social worker, case manager, or referral source serving Houston and the greater Texas area, you play a crucial role in connecting young people aging out of foster care with safe, effective transitional housing programs. The right placement can be transformative—providing not just shelter, but the support, skills, and stability needed for successful transition to independent living.

However, not all transitional housing programs are created equal. Quality varies widely, and the stakes are high. Young adults aging out of foster care face disproportionate risks of homelessness, unemployment, and other adverse outcomes. A quality transitional housing program can dramatically improve these outcomes.

This comprehensive guide provides you with clear criteria for evaluating transitional housing programs, ensuring that the young people you serve receive the highest quality support during this critical life transition.


Section 1: Safety & Security Standards

Safety is non-negotiable. Any program you consider should meet or exceed these minimum standards.

Physical Safety Requirements

Building & Facilities:

  • Current occupancy permits and certificates of compliance with Texas building codes
  • Working smoke detectors in all bedrooms and common areas (tested monthly per Texas law)
  • Carbon monoxide detectors where required by Texas law
  • Fire extinguishers accessible and regularly inspected per Texas Fire Code
  • Clear, marked emergency exits with evacuation plans posted
  • Adequate lighting in all areas, especially entryways and parking
  • Secure locks on exterior doors and windows meeting Texas security standards
  • Working HVAC systems (crucial for Houston’s extreme heat and humidity)
  • Clean, functioning plumbing and electrical systems
  • Regular pest control (essential in Houston’s climate)
  • Adequate drainage and no flood damage (critical in Houston)

Questions to Ask:

  1. When was your last fire safety inspection?
  2. Can you provide documentation of all required permits and certificates?
  3. What is your emergency evacuation plan?
  4. How do you handle maintenance requests and repairs?
  5. What pest control measures are in place?

Security Measures

Access Control:

  • Secure entry system (keys, codes, or fobs for residents)
  • Visitor policies that balance safety with resident autonomy
  • Well-lit parking areas and exterior spaces
  • Security cameras in common areas (not private spaces) where appropriate
  • Clear policies about who has access to the building

Personal Safety:

  • Background checks for all staff members
  • Clear policies prohibiting violence, threats, and harassment
  • Zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policies with appropriate support for those struggling with substance use
  • Crisis intervention protocols
  • Relationships with local law enforcement
  • 24-hour emergency contact availability

Questions to Ask:

  1. What background checks do you conduct on staff?
  2. How do you handle incidents of violence or threats?
  3. What is your visitor policy?
  4. Is there 24/7 staff presence or on-call support?
  5. What security cameras are in use, and where are they located?

Neighborhood Safety

Location Considerations for Houston:

  • Accessible to Houston METRO or major bus routes
  • Proximity to essential services (Texas Medical Center, community health clinics, HEB/Kroger, etc.)
  • Crime statistics (check Houston Police Department crime maps)
  • Well-maintained neighborhood
  • Community resources available nearby (Houston Public Library, Workforce Solutions, etc.)
  • Not in high-risk flood zones (check Harris County Flood Control District maps)

Red Flags in Houston:

  • Locations in high-crime areas without adequate security measures (check HPD data)
  • Areas with history of severe flooding without proper mitigation
  • Isolated locations far from METRO routes or services
  • Buildings in severe disrepair
  • Neighborhoods with limited access to grocery stores (food deserts)

Section 2: Staff Qualifications & Training

The quality of a transitional housing program is largely determined by the quality of its staff. Look for programs where staff are appropriately trained, adequately supported, and genuinely committed to resident success.

Minimum Staff Qualifications

Program Leadership:

  • Degree in social work, counseling, youth development, or related field
  • Experience working with foster youth or young adults
  • Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles
  • Understanding of adolescent/young adult development
  • Management and program oversight experience

Direct Service Staff:

  • Background in social services, education, counseling, or related fields
  • Training in trauma-informed care
  • Understanding of foster care system and its impacts
  • Cultural competence and ability to work with diverse populations
  • Strong communication and conflict resolution skills

Support Staff:

  • Appropriate training for their roles
  • Background checks completed
  • Understanding of program mission and resident population

Required Training

Initial Training (Before Working with Residents):

  • Trauma-informed care principles and practices
  • Adolescent and young adult development
  • Cultural competence and anti-bias training
  • Crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
  • Mandatory reporting requirements
  • Boundaries and professional ethics
  • Program policies and procedures
  • Confidentiality and HIPAA compliance (if applicable)

Ongoing Professional Development:

  • Annual refresher training on core topics
  • Specialized training based on resident needs (mental health first aid, substance use, LGBTQ+ competence, etc.)
  • Opportunities for conferences, workshops, and continuing education
  • Regular supervision and case consultation
  • Staff support to prevent burnout

Questions to Ask:

  1. What qualifications do your staff members have?
  2. What training do staff complete before working with residents?
  3. What ongoing training and professional development do you provide?
  4. What is your staff-to-resident ratio?
  5. How do you support staff wellness and prevent burnout?
  6. What supervision and oversight structures are in place?

Staff Retention & Culture

Indicators of Healthy Staff Culture:

  • Low staff turnover rates
  • Positive staff morale and team dynamics
  • Clear roles and responsibilities
  • Adequate compensation and benefits
  • Manageable caseloads/resident ratios
  • Regular team meetings and communication
  • Supportive leadership
  • Professional growth opportunities

Red Flags:

  • High staff turnover (residents need consistency)
  • Staff who seem burned out, disengaged, or negative
  • Unclear roles and responsibilities
  • Inadequate supervision or support
  • Staff making inappropriate comments about residents

Section 3: Program Structure & Support Services

Effective transitional housing goes far beyond providing a place to sleep. Look for comprehensive programming that addresses the multifaceted needs of young adults transitioning from foster care.

Core Program Components

1. Case Management

  • Individualized service plans developed with each resident
  • Regular one-on-one meetings (at least weekly initially)
  • Goal setting and progress monitoring
  • Connection to community resources
  • Advocacy and support
  • Crisis intervention when needed
  • Transition planning for moving out

2. Life Skills Training Must include instruction in:

  • Financial literacy and budgeting
  • Cooking and nutrition
  • Cleaning and home maintenance
  • Time management and organization
  • Job readiness and career development
  • Educational planning and support
  • Healthcare navigation
  • Transportation skills
  • Communication and conflict resolution
  • Housing search and lease understanding

3. Educational Support

  • Assistance with Houston-area college applications (UH, HCC, TSU, Rice, etc.)
  • Help accessing Texas financial aid (FAFSA, TEXAS Grant, Hazelwood Act if applicable)
  • Tutoring or academic coaching
  • Support for completing GED at Houston literacy centers
  • Career exploration and planning
  • Connection to educational resources (Houston Public Library, college support programs)

4. Employment Services

  • Resume and cover letter assistance
  • Interview preparation and practice
  • Job search support (connection to Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast)
  • Professional clothing assistance (Dress for Success Houston)
  • Transportation to interviews (METRO passes, ride coordination)
  • Work readiness training
  • Connection to Houston-area employment programs and opportunities
  • Partnership with local Houston employers when possible

5. Mental Health & Wellness Support

  • On-site counseling or easy access to Houston-area mental health services (Legacy Community Health, HCPC, etc.)
  • Crisis intervention protocols (connection to Harris Center crisis line)
  • Support groups or peer support
  • Wellness activities (exercise, mindfulness, stress management)
  • Substance use support and resources (Texas recovery resources)
  • Trauma-informed approach throughout all services
  • Understanding of Texas Medicaid coverage for foster youth until age 26

6. Social & Community Building

  • Opportunities for positive social connections
  • Community service or volunteer opportunities
  • Recreational activities
  • Celebration of achievements and milestones
  • Connection to broader community resources

Program Intensity & Duration

Length of Stay:

  • Minimum 12 months (research shows 18-24 months is ideal)
  • Flexible extensions based on individual progress
  • No arbitrary time limits that force residents out prematurely
  • Transition support even after moving out (alumni services)

Service Intensity:

  • High-intensity support initially (more frequent contact, more structure)
  • Gradual step-down as residents gain skills and confidence
  • Flexible intensity based on individual needs
  • Crisis support available when needed

Questions to Ask:

  1. What is your typical length of stay?
  2. Can residents stay longer if needed?
  3. How often do residents meet with case managers?
  4. What specific life skills programming do you offer?
  5. How is programming delivered (group vs. individual)?
  6. What mental health support is available?
  7. How do you support residents who are working or in school?
  8. What happens if a resident is struggling? What support is provided?

Section 4: Resident Rights & Protections

Quality programs respect resident autonomy while providing necessary structure and support. Look for programs with clear, written policies that protect resident rights.

Fundamental Rights

Residents should have the right to:

  • Safe, clean, habitable housing meeting all health and safety codes
  • Privacy in their personal spaces (private or semi-private rooms preferred)
  • Participate in decisions affecting their lives and program participation
  • Due process before any disciplinary action or program exit
  • Freedom from discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics
  • Access to personal belongings and control over personal space
  • Communication with family, friends, and support systems
  • Pursue education and employment opportunities
  • Access healthcare and make their own medical decisions
  • File grievances and have concerns addressed
  • Review their own files and records

Clear Policies & Procedures

Programs should have written, easily accessible policies covering:

  • House rules and expectations
  • Consequences and disciplinary procedures
  • Grievance and complaint procedures
  • Visitor policies
  • Curfew policies (if any)
  • Medication management
  • Search and seizure policies
  • Emergency procedures
  • Program exit criteria and processes
  • Resident rights and responsibilities

Questions to Ask:

  1. Can I review your resident handbook and program policies?
  2. How are rules and expectations communicated to residents?
  3. What is your grievance procedure?
  4. How do you handle rule violations?
  5. Under what circumstances would a resident be asked to leave?
  6. What due process protections are in place?
  7. How do you involve residents in decision-making?

Avoiding Overly Restrictive Environments

Red Flags:

  • Extremely rigid rules that don’t allow for age-appropriate autonomy
  • Punitive rather than therapeutic approach to behavior
  • Excessive surveillance or lack of privacy
  • Curfews that prevent employment or education
  • Restrictions on visitors that isolate residents from support systems
  • One-size-fits-all approach without individualization
  • Rules that seem designed for staff convenience rather than resident wellbeing

Balance is Key: Structure and expectations are important, but programs should foster independence, not create dependency or institutional environments.


Section 5: Success Metrics & Outcomes Tracking

Quality programs measure their effectiveness and continuously improve based on data.

Key Performance Indicators

During Program:

  • Percentage of residents employed or enrolled in education
  • Average length of stay
  • Percentage completing program successfully
  • Educational attainment (diplomas, degrees, certifications earned)
  • Skill acquisition (measured through assessments)
  • Stable housing maintained
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Mental health and wellness indicators

Post-Program (6 months, 1 year, longer):

  • Housing stability (percentage maintaining stable housing)
  • Employment status and income
  • Educational enrollment and completion
  • Recidivism (percentage who return to homelessness)
  • Life satisfaction and wellbeing measures
  • Social support and connectedness
  • Physical and mental health status

Data Collection & Reporting

What to Look For:

  • Systematic data collection processes
  • Regular outcome tracking and analysis
  • Willingness to share outcomes with funders and referral sources
  • Use of data to improve programs
  • Participation in research or evaluation studies

Questions to Ask:

  1. What outcomes do you track?
  2. Can you share your success rates and outcome data?
  3. How do you measure program effectiveness?
  4. What percentage of residents successfully complete your program?
  5. Do you follow up with alumni? What do those outcomes show?
  6. How do you use data to improve your program?

Realistic Expectations

Understand that:

  • Not every resident will succeed in every program
  • Some will leave early for various reasons
  • Setbacks and challenges are normal
  • Progress isn’t always linear
  • Success looks different for different individuals

However, quality programs should show:

  • Majority of residents making measurable progress
  • Clear improvements in skills and stability
  • Post-program success rates significantly better than outcomes for youth aging out without support
  • Continuous program improvement based on outcomes

Section 6: Crisis Intervention & Mental Health Support

Young adults transitioning from foster care often have experienced significant trauma and may face mental health challenges. Quality programs must be prepared to address these needs.

Mental Health Infrastructure

Minimum Requirements:

  • Relationships with mental health providers who accept Medicaid or provide sliding-scale services
  • Staff trained in trauma-informed care
  • Clear protocols for mental health crises
  • Ability to recognize signs of mental health struggles
  • Support for residents accessing therapy and psychiatric care
  • Accommodation of mental health appointments
  • Understanding of how trauma impacts behavior

Enhanced Support (Ideal):

  • On-site counseling services
  • Specialized programming for common issues (anxiety, depression, PTSD)
  • Peer support groups
  • Wellness programming
  • Psychiatric consultation available
  • Substance use disorder support
  • Partnerships with mental health training programs

Crisis Response Protocols

Essential Elements:

  • 24/7 access to crisis support (on-call staff minimum)
  • Relationships with local crisis services
  • Clear protocols for suicidal ideation or intent
  • Emergency mental health and medical contacts
  • De-escalation training for staff
  • Trauma-informed crisis response
  • Follow-up support after crises

Questions to Ask:

  1. How do you support residents with mental health needs?
  2. What is your protocol if a resident is in crisis?
  3. Do you have on-site mental health services or strong partnerships?
  4. What training does staff have in mental health and crisis response?
  5. How do you handle psychiatric emergencies?
  6. What happens if a resident needs a higher level of mental health care?

Substance Use Support

Realistic, Harm-Reduction Approach:

  • Understanding that substance use may occur
  • Support for residents working on recovery
  • Connections to substance use treatment when needed
  • Policies that balance safety with second chances
  • Trauma-informed understanding of why substance use happens

Red Flags:

  • Zero-tolerance policies with immediate discharge
  • Lack of support for residents struggling with substance use
  • Punitive rather than supportive approach
  • No connections to substance use treatment resources

Section 7: Cultural Competence & Inclusive Practices

Foster youth come from diverse backgrounds. Quality programs actively work to be inclusive and culturally responsive.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

What to Look For:

  • Diverse staff reflecting the communities served
  • Anti-bias and cultural competence training for all staff
  • Inclusive language and imagery in materials
  • Policies explicitly prohibiting discrimination
  • Celebration of diverse cultures, identities, and backgrounds
  • LGBTQ+ affirming practices and policies
  • Accommodation of religious practices and dietary needs
  • Disability accessibility and accommodations

Specific Considerations

LGBTQ+ Youth:

  • Explicit inclusion in non-discrimination policies
  • Staff training on LGBTQ+ competence
  • Gender-affirming practices (chosen names, pronouns respected)
  • Connections to LGBTQ+ specific resources and support
  • Safe, affirming environment free from harassment

Young People with Disabilities:

  • Physical accessibility of facility
  • Accommodations for learning disabilities
  • Support accessing disability services and benefits
  • Individualized support plans
  • Assistive technology when needed

Parenting Youth:

  • Support for young mothers and fathers
  • Childcare assistance when possible
  • Parenting education
  • Connection to resources for parents
  • Policies that don’t punish for having children

Questions to Ask:

  1. How do you ensure your program is culturally responsive?
  2. What training does staff receive on diversity and inclusion?
  3. How do you support LGBTQ+ residents?
  4. Is your facility accessible for people with disabilities?
  5. How do you accommodate diverse religious and cultural practices?
  6. How do you support parenting youth?

Section 8: Community Integration & Resource Connection

Transitional housing should not be an isolated institution. Quality programs actively connect residents to broader community resources and opportunities.

Community Partnerships

Essential Connections in Houston:

  • Educational institutions (UH, HCC, TSU, Rice, Houston Public Library)
  • Employment services (Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast, Houston Area Urban League)
  • Healthcare providers (Legacy Community Health, Harris Health, Houston Health Dept)
  • Houston METRO (transportation)
  • Lone Star Legal Aid (legal services)
  • Financial institutions and financial education programs (Houston area credit unions)
  • Recreation opportunities (Houston Parks & Rec, community centers)
  • Faith communities in Houston (for residents who wish to connect)
  • Volunteer opportunities (Houston Food Bank, local nonprofits)

Developing Independent Community Ties

Programs Should:

  • Encourage residents to build relationships outside the program
  • Support participation in community activities
  • Help residents identify their own community resources
  • Teach residents how to access services independently
  • Gradually reduce reliance on program as residents gain skills
  • Maintain connection to community after residents move out

Questions to Ask:

  1. What community partnerships do you have?
  2. How do you help residents connect to community resources?
  3. What opportunities exist for residents to engage in the broader community?
  4. How do you teach residents to access services independently?
  5. Do you provide alumni services after residents move out?

Section 9: Physical Environment & Amenities

The physical environment matters. Housing should be comfortable, well-maintained, and conducive to success.

Basic Requirements

Housing Quality:

  • Clean, well-maintained building
  • Adequate air conditioning (CRITICAL in Houston’s heat—test during summer)
  • Functioning kitchen(s) with adequate appliances
  • Clean, functioning bathrooms
  • Adequate storage space for personal belongings
  • Comfortable common areas for gathering
  • Quiet spaces for studying or privacy
  • Adequate furniture in good condition
  • Internet access (essential for applications, school, work)
  • Laundry facilities
  • Protection from Houston’s extreme weather and flooding

Preferred Arrangements:

  • Private or semi-private bedrooms (not dorms or large shared rooms)
  • Enough bathrooms to avoid conflicts
  • Comfortable, home-like atmosphere (not institutional)
  • Outdoor space when possible
  • Dedicated space for programming and activities

Red Flags

Unacceptable Conditions:

  • Overcrowding
  • Poor cleanliness or maintenance
  • Infestations
  • Inadequate heating or cooling
  • Institutional or prison-like atmosphere
  • Lack of privacy
  • Unsafe or unsanitary conditions
  • Broken or inadequate amenities

Questions to Ask:

  1. Can I tour the facility?
  2. What sleeping arrangements do residents have?
  3. How many residents share bathrooms/kitchens?
  4. What amenities are provided?
  5. How is maintenance handled?
  6. What common spaces are available?

Section 10: Financial Transparency & Sustainability

Understanding a program’s financial situation helps ensure it will be around to serve residents for the full duration of their stay.

Program Costs & Resident Contributions

What to Know:

  • What costs residents are responsible for
  • How fees are determined (sliding scale? Income-based?)
  • What financial assistance is available
  • Payment expectations and policies
  • What happens if residents can’t pay
  • What is included in cost (meals? utilities? supplies?)

Red Flags:

  • Costs that are clearly unaffordable for the target population
  • Hidden fees not disclosed upfront
  • Immediate discharge for inability to pay
  • Lack of financial assistance options
  • Unrealistic expectations about resident income

Program Funding & Stability

Questions to Consider:

  • Is the program financially stable?
  • What are their funding sources?
  • How long have they been operating?
  • Do they have adequate reserves?
  • Is funding diversified or dependent on a single source?
  • Are they growing, stable, or struggling financially?

Questions to Ask:

  1. What fees do residents pay?
  2. How are fees determined?
  3. What financial assistance is available?
  4. What is your organization’s financial stability?
  5. How long have you been providing these services?
  6. What are your primary funding sources?

Section 11: Red Flags & Warning Signs

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, investigate further before making a referral.

Major Red Flags

Safety Concerns:

  • Unsafe building conditions
  • Lack of required safety equipment
  • Staff without background checks
  • History of safety incidents
  • Inadequate security measures

Problematic Practices:

  • Overly restrictive or punitive environment
  • Staff who speak disrespectfully about residents
  • Lack of resident rights or grievance procedures
  • Excessive turnover (staff or residents)
  • Unwillingness to answer questions or allow tours
  • Pressure tactics to fill beds quickly
  • No clear policies or inconsistent enforcement

Financial Issues:

  • Unrealistic costs
  • Hidden fees
  • Financial instability
  • Lack of transparency about costs

Quality Concerns:

  • Lack of programming or minimal services
  • Unqualified or inadequately trained staff
  • No outcomes tracking
  • Poor reputation in the community
  • Regulatory violations or citations
  • No measurable success

Discriminatory Practices:

  • Exclusionary admission criteria
  • Discriminatory policies or practices
  • Lack of cultural competence
  • Unwelcoming to LGBTQ+ youth or other groups

Questions That Should Raise Concerns

If a program:

  • Can’t or won’t provide clear information about policies and outcomes
  • Is defensive or evasive about legitimate questions
  • Doesn’t allow thorough facility tours
  • Has numerous complaints from former residents
  • Can’t provide references from other social workers
  • Has recent legal or regulatory issues
  • Makes promises that seem too good to be true

Section 12: The Evaluation Process

When evaluating a transitional housing program for potential referral, follow a systematic process.

Initial Research

Before Contacting the Program:

  1. Review their website and materials
  2. Search for reviews or complaints
  3. Check if they’re licensed/accredited (if applicable in your state)
  4. Talk to other social workers who’ve made referrals
  5. Look for any news articles or media coverage
  6. Review their funding sources and financial stability

Site Visit

During Your Tour:

  • Observe the physical condition of the facility
  • Notice the atmosphere and interactions
  • Talk to residents if possible (with their consent)
  • Ask to see both private spaces and common areas
  • Observe cleanliness, safety features, and maintenance
  • Get a feel for whether it seems like a positive environment

Interview Process

Key Questions to Ask: (See specific questions throughout each section above)

Additional Questions:

  1. What makes your program unique or particularly effective?
  2. What types of young people do you serve best?
  3. What challenges do residents commonly face, and how do you address them?
  4. How do you handle residents who are struggling?
  5. What is your relationship with child welfare agencies?
  6. How can we communicate about referred youth?
  7. What information do you need for referrals?
  8. What is your admission process and timeline?

Reference Checks

Talk to:

  • Other social workers who’ve made referrals
  • Community partners who work with the program
  • Former residents or alumni (if possible and appropriate)
  • Funding sources or oversight agencies

Ask About:

  • Quality of communication
  • Responsiveness to concerns
  • Outcomes for referred youth
  • Strengths and areas for improvement
  • Would they refer again?

Making the Decision

Consider:

  • Does this program meet minimum standards for safety and quality?
  • Is it a good fit for this particular young person’s needs?
  • Do the benefits outweigh any concerns?
  • Are there better alternatives available?
  • What supports will be in place to monitor the placement?
  • How will you stay connected to the young person?

Section 13: Supporting Successful Placements

Your role doesn’t end when you make a referral. Ongoing support and communication increase the likelihood of success.

Before Placement

Prepare the Young Person:

  • Discuss what to expect
  • Review program rules and expectations
  • Address fears or concerns
  • Set goals together
  • Ensure they know how to contact you

Communicate with the Program:

  • Share relevant background information (with appropriate consents)
  • Discuss the young person’s strengths and needs
  • Clarify roles and communication expectations
  • Identify potential challenges and plans to address them

During Placement

Stay Connected:

  • Regular check-ins with the young person
  • Communication with program staff (as appropriate)
  • Attendance at important meetings or events when possible
  • Advocacy when issues arise
  • Celebration of successes

Address Issues Early:

  • Don’t wait for crises to intervene
  • Regular communication prevents small issues from becoming big ones
  • Support problem-solving rather than immediately removing the young person
  • Coordinate with program staff on interventions

If Problems Arise

Problem-Solving Approach:

  1. Gather information from all perspectives
  2. Identify the core issues
  3. Consider whether issues can be resolved with support
  4. Involve the young person in decision-making
  5. Give the program opportunity to address concerns
  6. Document everything
  7. Consider alternatives only if issues cannot be resolved

When to Remove a Young Person:

  • Safety concerns that cannot be mitigated
  • Program unwilling to address legitimate issues
  • Young person is clearly not thriving despite interventions
  • Better alternative available
  • Young person requests removal for valid reasons

Conclusion: Your Critical Role

As a social worker, case manager, or referral source, you are a crucial link between young people aging out of foster care and the services that can change their trajectories. By holding transitional housing programs to high standards and making thoughtful, informed referrals, you help ensure that vulnerable young adults receive the quality support they deserve.

Key Takeaways

  1. Safety First: Never compromise on basic safety and security standards
  2. Look for Comprehensiveness: Housing alone isn’t enough—quality programs provide wraparound support
  3. Qualified Staff Matter: Well-trained, supported staff are the heart of effective programs
  4. Respect for Residents: Programs should empower, not control
  5. Measure Success: Quality programs track outcomes and continuously improve
  6. Cultural Competence: Programs must be inclusive and responsive to diverse needs
  7. Community Connection: Isolation helps no one—programs should connect residents to broader resources
  8. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, investigate further
  9. Stay Involved: Your relationship with the young person shouldn’t end at placement
  10. Advocate: Push for quality and hold programs accountable

Resources for Professionals

National Organizations:

  • Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative
  • National Foster Youth Institute
  • Child Welfare League of America
  • Annie E. Casey Foundation
  • FosterClub

Research & Best Practices:

  • Chapin Hall at University of Chicago (research on youth aging out)
  • Evidence-based practices in transitional housing
  • Trauma-informed care resources

Professional Development:

  • Trainings on adolescent development
  • Foster care and aging out issues
  • Trauma-informed practice
  • Cultural competence

About This Guide

This guide was developed by The Pivot Pad, located in Houston, Texas, based on research, best practices in the field, and our experience providing transitional housing services to young women ages 18-22 transitioning from foster care. We welcome questions and feedback from social workers and other professionals serving the Houston area and beyond.

Contact The Pivot Pad:

For Referrals: Contact us to discuss potential residents and schedule facility tours. We serve young women ages 18-22 in the Houston area who are transitioning from foster care to independent living.


Keywords: transitional housing standards Houston, foster youth programs Texas, social worker resources Houston, program evaluation, quality standards for youth housing, aging out of foster care Texas, best practices in transitional housing, foster care to independent living Houston, youth housing assessment, child welfare resources Texas