Immerse’s Launch in Northwest Arkansas

In Northwest Arkansas, there are roughly 400 youth in the 4-county foster care system (Area 1: Benton, Washington, Madison and Carroll Counties). Approximately 39% of these young people are ages 12 and older.

Immerse has completed a detailed needs assessment for Northwest Arkansas, including source Interviews with other providers in the area, and has developed a regional launch plan to serve youth from crisis in Benton and Washington Counties and the surrounding area. Immerse’s launch into Northwest Arkansas will be a staggered approach depending on funding, staff recruitment and program implementation.

teens and their families face challenging prospects in northwest arkansas:

• There are no transitional living beds in the area to support youth in extended foster care.

• Due to lack of options, it is reported that some youth have resorted to living under bridges.

• There is a wave of disruption and divorce among adoptive families who receive few supportive services.

• The juvenile detention center is often the best option for youth who re-enter the community but also are at high risk for homelessness.