The FREEDOM Forward curriculum combines a structured six-phase core program with supplemental learning that reinforces practical skills, recovery principles, and personal growth.
Each weekday, participants take part in two structured groups. The first follows the core phase curriculum. The second deepens that learning through supplemental workbooks, guided activities individualized skill building.
Phase 1: Foundation of Personal Responsibility and Self-Care helps participants develop the routines, self-awareness, and everyday skills needed for greater independence. The phase focuses on personal responsibility, self-care, time management, health and medication routines, respectful communication, personal identity, and understanding individual rights.
Phase 2: Social Interaction and Community Engagement helps participants build the communication, relationship, safety, and conflict-resolution skills needed to participate more confidently in community life. The phase also emphasizes healthy boundaries, positive social connections, awareness of community resources, and the development of reliable support systems.
Phase 3: Empowerment Through Self-Advocacy and Supported Decision-Making helps participants set meaningful goals, communicate their needs, and advocate for greater choice and independence. The phase also teaches Supported Decision-Making, legal-rights awareness, and how to build a trusted support network that can assist with restoring partial or full rights.
Phase 4: Pathways to Employment and Financial Independence prepares participants to explore education, vocational training, employment, and volunteer opportunities that match their interests and abilities. It also builds workplace communication, professional behavior, budgeting, financial-management, and work-life balance skills to support long-term independence and stability
Phase 5: Building Independence in Housing and Community Life helps participants develop the practical skills needed to live safely and successfully in the community. The phase covers housing options, transportation, household management, nutrition, personal safety, conflict resolution, and planning for a transition to more independent living
Phase 6: Preparation for Guardianship Restoration and Legal Independence helps participants understand and prepare for the process of seeking partial or full restoration of their rights. The phase focuses on legal support, organizing documentation, developing a personal statement, preparing for court, and creating a long-term plan for maintaining independence with appropriate supports.
Supplemental learning overview
The second group each day expands on the core lesson through specialized workbooks and skill-based activities. Topics include: communication and self-advocacy, medication management, emotional wellness, independent living, community integration, financial literacy, wellness and vocational readiness, developing and showing an understanding of basic life skills like personal grooming, housekeeping, laundry, and others. This flexible structure allows participants to strengthen specific skills while reinforcing core concepts.
The Restoration Portfolio
Throughout the program, participants build a restoration portfolio that documents their work, skills demonstrated, goals and achievements. This portfolio is intended to support meaningful team discussions, offering a structured record of progress over time. It does not replace professional evaluations or legal decision-making, but serves as an informational tool.
Our educational philosophy
FREEDOM Forward is grounded in the belief that with opportunity, structure and support, people can continue to grow. We focus on growth and collaboration, working alongside the people and professionals who support each participant.