About OKSA
The University of Oklahoma National Resource Center for Youth Services contracts with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and Child Welfare Services, to implement the Oklahoma Successful Adulthood (OKSA) program. The program provides training and consultation, conference and event coordination, and statewide support to child welfare staff, tribal staff, resource parents, and contractors working with youth and young adults. These services prepare workers to support young people in preparation for transition to adulthood. In addition, OKSA coordinates the delivery of services and resources directly to OKSA eligible youth and young adults through the OKSA Helpline.
The OKSA mission is to empower youth in and from foster care to lead safer, healthier, more independent and productive lives.
The creation of OKSA
The John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood is a federal program that offers assistance to help current and former foster care youths achieve self-sufficiency. Grants are offered to States and Tribes who submit a plan to assist youth in a wide variety of areas designed to support a successful transition to adulthood. Activities and programs include, but are not limited to, help with education, employment, financial management, housing, emotional support and assured connections to caring adults for older youth in foster care. The program is intended to serve youth who are likely to remain in foster care until age 18, youth who, after attaining 16 years of age, have left foster care for kinship guardianship or adoption, and young adults ages 18-23 who have "aged out" of the foster care system.
Oklahoma's Response
Oklahoma’s Independent Living Program is called, the Oklahoma Successful Adulthood (OKSA) Program. The vision of OKSA is to be a youth-focused and youth-driven program that serves youth at various ages and stages of achieving self-sufficiency. The OKSA program emphasizes the importance of early planning for a successful transition to adulthood and promotes the importance of permanent connections by encouraging a multi-disciplinary approach using culturally relevant and age-appropriate resources and services.
Seven Domains
OKSA empowers youth with seven domains designed to guide them in preparing for a successful transition into adulthood.
Health>
OKSA emphasizes health as a key element of preparing for adulthood, recognizing that overall well-being includes both physical and mental wellness. By promoting self-care, stress management, and a balanced lifestyle, OKSA helps youth build a strong foundation for a healthy and fulfilling future.
Housing>
OKSA highlights housing as a crucial element in preparing for adulthood, recognizing that where you live each day impacts your stability and well-being. Ensuring that your housing is safe, stable, and affordable for you is essential to building a secure and independent future.
Education>
OKSA recognizes education as a vital part of preparing for adulthood, providing the foundation for future opportunities and success. Whether you pursue a high school diploma, vocational training, an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, or another path, continuing your education is key to building a strong and independent future.
Employment>
OKSA emphasizes employment as a key element of adulthood, recognizing that every job, big or small, plays a role in building experience and financial independence. Whether you're starting as a cashier or leading an organization, your skills, education, and experience influence your opportunities and earning potential.
Essential Documents>
OKSA highlights essential documents as a key part of preparing for adulthood, as they establish your identity and access to important services. These include your birth certificate, Social Security card, driver's license, and, if applicable, a CDIB (Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood). Keeping these documents secure—whether in a locked, fireproof box at home or a safe place like a bank—ensures they are protected from loss, fire, or theft.
Life Skills>
OKSA recognizes life skills as essential tools for navigating adulthood, helping young people build independence and confidence in daily tasks. From cooking and laundry to driving and managing finances, these skills are used every day—often without even thinking about them—and are key to a successful transition into adulthood.
Permanent Connections>
OKSA emphasizes permanent connections as a vital part of adulthood, recognizing the importance of having a reliable support system. These are the people in your life who check in on you, offer guidance, and are there for you anytime you need help. Building and maintaining these strong, lasting relationships provides stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as you navigate adulthood.