This book addresses the basic issues that require resolution in the design of an effective, comprehensive independent living program for adolescents who are moving out of foster care placements. It provides recommendations for improving the delivery of services and encourages adoption of certain policies and practices to improve conditions immediately in the delivery of independent living services. The book also provides a blueprint for future actions for consideration by adolescent independent living programs. The text presents a working document approach to program development. Following an introductory section, section 2 concerns additional elements of a comprehensive plan, section 3 deals with planning a project approach, and section 4 reports on general issues and themes. Sections 5 through 17 cover specific programming areas needed for development: information/public relations materials; advisory boards; program incentives; staff specialization; overall training; independent living case plans; volunteers and mentors; teenage conferences; jobs and vocational programs; housing; follow-up after the transition and post-discharge services; mini- or seed grants; and special groups. Section 18 lists overall program recommendations. Appendixes making up about half the document provide supporting documentation, including federal program instructions and guidelines, state licensing regulations, the Youth Application Short Form, evaluation materials, an agency work plan form, and an annotated resource section. (NB)