In late 2024, Echelon Protection & Surveillance will launch a groundbreaking service called YES (Youth Essential Services, LLC). This initiative arises from an urgent need to provide safe, nurturing environments for children and youth within Philadelphia’s welfare system. YES aims to redefine care with its first facility, which will house four to six residents and be staffed entirely by licensed and certified professionals.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this new service, why we created it and how it works. This could be the ideal service if you require protective services for children or youths in your care.

A Comprehensive Approach to Care

YES is not just a housing solution. It is a complete supportive environment designed to foster well-being and growth among its residents. We aim to make the facility much more than just a place to live — it will be a center for holistic development, focusing on the health, safety, and emotional growth of each resident.

How will we achieve that? It’s all down to our full-time staff, who will not only manage the day-to-day operations but also ensure a compassionate and responsive atmosphere, care and support.

High Standards of Security and Safety

As you would imagine given our background in security and protection, security takes precedence at YES facilities. There are several measures that exceed the standard requirements common in other care facilities. Our approach involves 24/7 monitoring and personal protection, for example, ensuring that all occupants—children, staff, and visitors—are always safe. This layer of security extends to transportation and escort services, whether it’s for healthcare appointments or educational activities, providing peace of mind to all involved. In short, we will never leave a resident without the protection or support they need.

Specialized Training and Certifications

All personnel undergo extensive training to equip our staff for the unique challenges posed by our clientele. This includes, but is not limited to, State Child Abuse Clearance, Child Abuse Mandated Report Training, and Safe Crisis Management. Additionally, staff members must hold certifications in First Aid and CPR, ensuring preparedness for any medical emergencies.

Funding and Support

Operational funding for YES is sourced from several federal and state initiatives, such as Title IV-E of the Social Security Act, Medicaid, and the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG). These funds are crucial in maintaining the high quality of services and facilities that YES promises to provide. They also support the comprehensive care programs that are pivotal to the rehabilitation and well-being of children and youths.

YES: A Commitment to Better Futures

Our commitment at YES extends beyond meeting basic needs. We aim to provide a foundation for a brighter future for each child and youth we serve. By integrating state-of-the-art facilities, specialized staff, and a compassionate approach, YES is set to become a beacon of hope and transformation in the child welfare landscape. As we move forward, our focus remains steadfast on creating impactful, positive changes in the lives of those entrusted to our care.

Echelon’s initiative with YES (Youth Essential Services, LLC) exemplifies our dedication to expanding and enhancing the services we offer. We understand the critical nature of our work and are committed to providing the highest level of care and protection, paving the way for safer, healthier, and more promising futures for vulnerable populations.

For more information on how EPS can support your child welfare services, speak to one of our experts today.