Topeka Moving Ahead Program (T-MAP)

A Program of the Employment Training Division of Kansas Legal Services, Inc.

Overview of Services

The Topeka Moving Ahead Program (T-MAP) is a job readiness program that helps individuals and families break the cycle of homelessness through housing and employment. T-MAP assists participants in developing their skills, obtaining employment, and barrier resolution. The philosophy of T-MAP is to assist individuals with four major life transitions:

T-MAP was awarded a Best Practices award in May, 2005, by the Regional Housing Urban Development (HUD) office because of its comprehensive service structure and collaborative community practice. The service structure for T-MAP includes our partnership with the Topeka Rescue Mission, case management, employment assistance, classroom instruction and computer instruction. T-MAP case management also helps students obtain medical, dental, mental health services, SRS benefits, cash assistance for deposits, rent and utilities, as well as other services that support self-sufficiency and self-reliance. As a comprehensive service model, the success of T-MAP depends upon a high degree of collaboration among community service providers.

Starting operation in July, 2003, T-MAP features a group curriculum that focuses on participants’ strengths and on their abilities to set goals and make positive decisions. The program uses group interaction to reduce the social isolation that often accompanies homelessness and encourages group problem solving which builds trust among participants and with staff. T-MAP offers a comprehensive thirteen-week program delivered five days per week. The curriculum operates on a schedule with new participants beginning classes every seven weeks. Each class has up to fifteen participants.

Services provided to T-MAP participants include, but are not limited to:

Other services for T-MAP participants range from assistance in applying for public benefits, Social Security cards, and Kansas ID or driver’s license (all of which may involve records search and legal rehabilitation), to finding a variety of solutions to barriers. Individual needs/referrals that need to be addressed are handled on a case-by-case basis. T-MAP’s commitment to participants extends far beyond the thirteen-week curriculum. T-MAP has created a network of program alumni and staff who provide the caring and emotional support that is necessary to help each graduate successfully face their unique social and career needs.

Alumni have access to staff for case management and employment assistance and T-MAP program resources such as the computer lab and cultural literacy activities. Staff organizes activities such as picnics and social events to help alumni maintain contact with T-MAP staff and other graduates. T-MAP staff also provide assistance to program participant graduates in obtaining suitable permanent housing and employment.