PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Stepping Stone Program, located in a Victorian home in Waterbury, Connecticut, is a secure residential treatment program serving girls committed to the Department of Children and Families. The program is specifically designed to meet the treatment, life skills, gender, substance abuse, trauma, family and transitional needs of adolescent girls involved with the Department of Children and Families. The young women have the opportunity to build a trusting one-on-one relationship with an Advocate counselor and Aftercare services are provided. The educational program is geared toward the goal of each girl obtaining needed credits as well as providing individualized supports in order for each young woman to experience success within the school setting. Stepping Stone also offers a vocational program unique within Connecticut that provides skills training in the areas of graphic design, building trades and culinary arts. The balance of the program’s milieu, educational program, treatment components and the vocational services provide a holistic and gender responsive experience based on each girl’s strengths, needs and areas of interest.