Our Programs

Building Brighter Futures

At ELS Arizona, our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each child we serve. From trauma-informed care and academic support to life skills training and family reunification, every service we offer is rooted in compassion, safety, and long-term success.

Core Residential Programs

Trauma-Informed Behavioral Support

  • Individual and group therapy with licensed clinicians
  • Crisis intervention and de-escalation plans
  • Behavioral goal-setting and daily progress tracking

Life Skills Development

  • Daily living skills including hygiene, cooking, household chores and time management
  • Social and communication skill development
  • Financial literacy through age-appropriate money management concepts

Academic Support

  • Tutoring and homework assistance
  • School coordination and IEP advocacy
  • Credit recovery and GED support

Health & Wellness

  • Routine medical, dental, and vision care
  • Nutrition and physical activity education
  • Substance use education and prevention

Emotional & Social Development

Mentorship & Positive Role Modeling

  • Mentors matched to youth based on shared backgrounds
  • Staff engagement in coaching and relationship building

Conflict Resolution & Communication

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum
  • Daily check-ins
  • Anger management and emotional support

Cultural Identity & Enrichment

  • Tribal language, storytelling, and traditional crafts
  • Observance of cultural holidays and practices
  • Community volunteers and tribal volunteers as guest facilitators

Transition & Independence
Planning (Ages 14+)

Independent Living Program (ILP) Preparation

  • Coordination with Arizona ILP services
  • Personalized transition planning starting at age 16
  • Financial literacy and savings account setup

Vocational Training

  • Partnerships with local employers and trade schools
  • On-site vocational workshops and computer skills training

Family Engagement (If Applicable)

Family Reunification Services

  • Coordinate with State for family visitation and coaching
  • Daily monitored family phone calls

Aftercare Planning

  • 30 to 90-day aftercare support
  • Referrals to community wraparound services

Safety & Empowerment Programs

Anti-Trafficking & Exploitation Awareness

  • Internet safety and healthy relationship education
  • Staff training to identify exploitation risks

Youth Rights & Advocacy

  • Education on legal rights and foster care policies
  • Youth advisory boards and leadership opportunities