Compass Program
Compass is one of the two Certified Peer Specialist programs that CHAPS offers. A Certified Peer Specialist is an individual with lived mental health experience who has completed a certification training curriculum approved by the PA Department of Human Services. These specialists work as an advocate who helps eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness as well as a role model providing hope and inspiration for the individuals they work with. CPS work alongside individuals to help demonstrate recovery is possible, create strategies for self-improvement, support and assist with the development of vocational and educational goals, and assist with accessing and maintaining decent and affordable housing. Research has shown that peer support help can improve social functioning, increase empowerment and hope, and lead to higher levels of community engagement.
Compass provides peer support for youth between the ages of 14-18. These individuals must be residents of Crawford, Venango, or Mercer county, have the presence of, or history of, mental health concerns, and choose to receive services.
Services are offered outside of school hours and will vary with days and times to meet the needs of the individual.
Pathfinders
Pathfinders is an after-school site-based psychiatric rehabilitation program for youth. This program helps bridge the gap between child and adult service systems, identify and build on individuals’ strengths, and empower individuals by promoting self-efficacy and self-advocacy. Individuals will identify a goal in one or more of the following domains: living, learning, social, vocational, and wellness. Individuals will also build skills to support their identified goals, including: gaining independent living skills, pursuing chosen educational path, connecting with natural supports, obtaining meaningful employment, and learning to make nutritious meals.
This program serves individuals between the ages of 14 to 17, who reside in Crawford County, have the presence of, or history of, mental health concerns, and choose to receive services. This program is located at CHAPS (944 Liberty Street Meadville PA) and runs on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.
Service Contact
Amy Lauria, Journey Center Director
(814) 373-5067, alauria@chapsinc.org
Youth Housing Programs
Our goal is to end youth homelessness.
We serve young people ages 16–24 who are experiencing literal homelessness—such as living on the streets or in emergency shelters—or housing instability, including pending eviction, couch surfing, or residing in unsafe or unstable environments.
Through funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)'s Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) our dedicated staff provide assistance with systems navigation, host homes, and permanent supportive housing.
Systems Navigation (Connections)
This program supports youth ages 16–24 by connecting them to permanent, stable housing as well as essential benefits and community resources. Through individualized guidance and support, youth are empowered to achieve their goals, strengthen overall wellness, and build lasting independence.
Host Homes (Open Doors)
Host Homes is a program where caring adults open their homes to youth ages 18–24 who need a safe, temporary place to stay. With the support of their host and CHAPS, youth are able to stabilize, build confidence, develop independent living skills, and take meaningful steps toward permanent housing and employment.
Permanent Supportive Housing (Passages)
This program helps youth ages 18–24 secure subsidized housing in a CHAPS master-leased apartment while receiving individualized coaching to build independent living skills and successfully transition to permanent housing.
For more information, you can contact:
Christie Schneider (Youth Housing Coordinator)
(814) 373-5085 or cschneider@chapsinc.org
Sandy Farkas (Housing Solutions Director)
(814) 373-5082 cfarkas@chapsinc.org
How can you help?
Share this information with youth (16-24 years old) who are in need
Contact us for more information
Consider being a host home