UnitedHealthcare helps teens in foster care develop important life skills. Called UnitedHealthcare OMW^TM (On My Way), the program is aimed at helping foster youth through the process of transitioning out of foster care and into adulthood.

The program uses an interactive website to help teens learn about six key areas that have historically prevented them from achieving stable, independent lives. The areas of focus include:

• Money: budget and learn about money and taxes;
• Housing: understand and compare housing options;
• Work: create a resume and learn interview tips;
• Education: determine next steps after high school;
• Health: learn important health info and common health questions; and
• Transportation: navigate options when it comes to getting around.

Many components of the website can be printed off and used as the teen develops their Independent Living Plan.  Social workers can receive reporting on how many tracks have been completed to ensure the youth are making progress in their journey.

Providing support for teens transitioning from foster care is important. Studies have shown youth who leave foster care are more likely to drop out of high school, be unemployed and depend on public assistance. In addition, social determinants of health, such as home-life and work environment, are connected to peoples’ physical health and well-being.  This tool is just one way that UnitedHealthcare is driving towards its mission to help people live healthier lives.

UnitedHealthcare and National Foster Parent Associations have been partnering together for the past three years.  Together, we have built a Trauma Informed Care training course and held 11 training sessions to-date for UnitedHealthcare Staff who interact with children and youth in foster care.

Check out the site today: www.uhcOMW.com

Questions: OnMyWay@uhc.com