Thesis Project
Roots: Congregate Care for Independent Living
Welfare in America has housed nearly 400,000 children yearly and 20,000 being youths that are exiting welfare programs. Systemic issues have come forth that impede these youths from successfully transition into independent living. The goal of this project is to identify these issues as well as address the fundamental needs that a child needs to transition into adulthood. This research review delves into design guided and evidence-based design examples as applicable solutions in congregate care to assure that adolescent developmental needs are met, a caring environment is provided in the process, and therapeutic interventions are afforded to mediate any issues during this period of growth and instability. This research topic pertains to forming an understanding of the needs of adolescents in the foster care system and facilitating their transition into independent adulthood through architectural and spatial qualities.
