YCC is now accepting referrals and setting intake appointments to complete applications and interviews for Touchstone Village's newest residents, 16-21 years of age. If you have not already submitted a referral and would like more information on eligibility you may do so by contacting the Program Manager, Donna Koncinsky, at donna@ycc.org or call (904)-805-0850.
At Touchstone Village
The Educational/Career Specialist works with the residents to advance
educational and career goals by:
• Assessing educational and career goals and aptitudes
• Identifying educational, vocational and employment resources
• Providing assistance with school enrollment and job placement
• Facilitating a series of employment readiness and job support
groups to prepare residents for gainful employment
All Touchstone Village residents have the opportunity to be dual-enrolled in Job Corps, through which technical training is available in the following fields:
• Office Administration
• Carpentry
• Computer Service Technology
• Electrical
• Facilities Maintenance
• Nurse Assistance
• Heating and Air Conditioning
• Material Handler
• Medical Assistant
• Pharmacy Tech
The following organizations have agreed to partner with Touchstone Village to support residents in reaching their employment and career goals:
• NE Florida Builders Association – apprenticeship programs
• Job Corps
•WorkSource
• Florida Community College at Jacksonville
• University of North Florida
• Jobs for Florida’s Graduates
• Department of Children and Families
• Family Support Services
• Clay/Baker Kids Net, Inc.
• Junior Achievement
• University of Florida - Jacksonville, Dept. of Pediatrics
• Girl’s Circle/Boy’s Council
•Volunteer Jacksonville
• EverBank of Jacksonville
• Project SOS
• Gateway Community Services
• River Region Human Services
• Hubbard House
NOT JUST A JOB, A CAREER
The Touchstone Village program is geared towards every resident making progress and moving to the next level.
Level I
• 16-17 years old
• Two residents per room for a total of 8 residents
• Orientation and adjustment phase
• Structured schedule with daily chores
Residents must achieve the following in order to progress to Level II:
• Completion of goals on Action Plan
• Enrollment in school and attending classes
• Completion of Independent Living skills classes
• Prove proficiency in job seeking skills and completion of mock interview
• Completion of volunteer hours
Level II
• 16-17 years old
• Private rooms for a total of 12 residents
• Duration of 12-18 months depending on the starting age
• Continued structured schedule and daily chores, but more privileges
• Expected to obtain employment
Residents must achieve the following in order to progress to Level III:
• Completion of goals on Action Plan
• Enrollment in school and attending classes
• Maintain employment
• Completion of a career inventory assessment
• Completion of an assigned number of volunteer hours
• Development and adherence to a budget, saving at least 50% of income
From Start to Finish
Level III
• 18-21 years old
• Each resident has his or her own efficiency unit and pays monthly rent and utilities
• Averages 12-18 months, possibly longer depending on individual needs
• Must attend a post-secondary education program and maintain employment
Residents must achieve the following in order to progress to Level IV:
• Demonstration of financial responsibility
• Completion of goals on Action Plan
• Mastery of all Independent Living Skills
• Completion of high school (or equivalent) and either:
Enroll in a post-secondary education and continued part-time employment. Obtainment of full-time employment.
Level IV
With the assistance of the Life Coach and or Housing Specialist, residents locate a community rental
property and negotiate a lease, arrange for utilities and plan to move. Once residents move into a community
rental, case management services are provided for approximately 6 months. Graduates are welcome to
come back to Touchstone Village for further Independent Skills training or other help. Graduates are also
encouraged to mentor current residents at Touchstone Village.
