Independence Prep - On My Own

Independence Prep is an overnight immersive independent living experience for high school students with developmental disabilities.

Independence Prep is best suited for students who:

are currently in 9th through 12th grades
have a developmental disability such as:
- ADHD
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Epilepsy
- intellectual disabilities, cognitive impairments or learning disorders
want to participate in Independence Prep
have demonstrated success in maintaining personal hygiene independently
have demonstrated success in managing daily medication independently
have demonstrated success in remaining safe in both new and known environments without close supervision
do not require one-on-one support from a paraprofessional during the school day
do not have a history of being violent with themselves or others
have demonstrated success with communicating their needs effectively and appropriately
have demonstrated success with listening to and following rules and two-to-three-step instructions
have demonstrated success with learning and maintaining skills
are respectful of others

Independence Prep has been carefully designed to help students and families:

build a foundation for independent living skill attainment and practice throughout high school,
build a shared goal and vision for living independently, and
increase excitement for and momentum towards living independently after high school.

If this describes what you're seeking for your family or someone you support, Independence Prep may be right for you!

Independence Prep experiences will be offered quarterly. Our next session of Independence Prep launches in Fall 2021 and includes:

an orientation session for students + families the evening of Thursday, September 23rd
- designed to help you get comfortable with and prepare for your weekend away
- held at the On My Own of Michigan office in Troy, Michigan
an all-inclusive two-night independent living experience for students the weekend of Friday, October 8th through Sunday, October 10th
- designed to help students build social connections and independent living skills in a safe, supported and fun environment
- held at the Butzel Retreat Center in Ortonville, Michigan
a recap session for students + families the evening of Thursday, October 21st
- designed to help you debrief your experience while also meeting young adults + families who have successfully made the transition to independent living
- held at the On My Own of Michigan office in Troy, Michigan

Enrollment for our Fall 2021 Independence Prep session ends on September 17th.

Our application process involves the following steps:

First, complete our online application form here.
At the same time you complete your application, please submit your $50 non-refundable deposit (click the button on the application page to be brought to our payment page.)
Once we receive your online application and deposit, we'll contact you to schedule an interview with our staff. We'll want to meet with both you (our prospective Independence Prep student) and your parent(s)/guardian(s).
We'll also reach out to the teacher or social worker you listed as a reference on your application. We'll ask them a few questions about your potential fit for Independence Prep.
Once these steps are complete and we've been able to confirm you meet our eligibility criteria, you'll receive an official acceptance to Independence Prep! Your final payment of $450 will be due no later than September 17th.