To learn more about the range of services we offer to youth, please watch this video tour:
Homeless youth are connected to our fully-furnished transitional housing for up to 18 months. During their time in the program, each youth works with a case manager to develop a plan for the future -- establishing goals in the areas of permanent housing, education, employment, life skills, and other areas as needed. Each week we offer life skills classes and leadership opportunities for the youth, helping them to learn skills and then providing them with opportunities to practice those skills. To learn more -- or to apply for the program -- please call us at 269-381-9800 or submit an inquiry through the website.
We have a variety of Transitional Housing Opportunities for homeless youth ages 16-21. Please contact us at 269-381-9800 or attend a drop-in to learn more about these options.
The Ark Cottages include nine units for older homeless youth, ages 18-24 when entering the program. Youth create a housing plan and receive services to help them be successful in their new home. Contact us at 269-381-9800 for more information.
The Ark is a only short-term, voluntary shelter serving nine counties in southwest Michigan. Youth ages 10-17 who have run away, are in danger of becoming homeless or who are in a crisis situation are eligible. Counseling and support services are offered to youth and their families. Contact us at 269-381-9800 for more information.
Staff members are available to come to your school or organization to provide information about all the services offered by The Ark. We can personalize these sessions to any audience and encourage you to call us to learn more.
We also offer prevention services to youth who are precariously housed in their own community. Youth and families in crisis can access up to 90 days of prevention and outreach services. Staff travel to the youth's home in any of the nine counties we serve -- Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St Joseph, or Van Buren. Staff provide personalized and intensive services and help connect the family to long-term resources. The youth (and family) develop specific goals and work with case managers to achieve those goals, building stability and self-sufficiency in the process.