THRESHOLD GRADUATES SUCCEED

The Threshold Program recently released results of a research project that gathered information about Threshold graduates. Survey questions focused on residential patterns, employment, independent living skills, and financial and/or other support needed after graduation. They were also queried about leisure activities and overall satisfaction with their level of independence.

All of the survey results indicated growth in a positive direction for the respondents as a whole. Both graduates and their parents were very satisfied with the graduates' level of independence as well.

The research population consisted of 229 graduates of the two-year Threshold Program and their parents from twelve graduating classes, from 1984-1995. Of these:

• 112 parents responded to mailed questionnaires
  
• 144 graduates were reached by phone and interviewed - of these, 85 attended the Transition Program in addition to the two-year program
  
• 86 matched pairs of parents and graduates responded

The graduates reported:

• 75% currently live in a rented apartment or condo
  
• 82% of graduates are currently employed
  
• 22 graduates are married
  
• 8 have children

Finally, the research found that 91% of graduates are very satisfied with their overall level of independence at present; and 84% of the parents are somewhat to very satisfied.