The VMH level system is designed to help residents recognize their strengths and positive behaviors, and earn increasing privileges and responsibilities when they demonstrate these behaviors.   It is logic-based, in that those residents who demonstrate through positive, pro-social behaviors that they can be responsible, will be allowed increasing levels of autonomy and privilege, because they have earned the trust of others.  Levels are decided on a weekly basis, and are determined by weekly percentage of daily points.

Orientation Level

This level lasts for the first two weeks of the resident’s stay.  The purpose of the Orientation Level is to allow the resident time to become accustomed to her surroundings, get to know others, and to learn the program rules.  Privileges are the same on Orientation Level as on Level 2, (based on staff discretion) however, there are no off grounds passes during this time.

Level 1  (below 65%)

May watch television if this is the designated activity

Must be supervised while outside

May go on group outings depending upon behavior the day of the outing

1 ten minute phone call per day

$.75 allowance per week

Money must be kept in staff office

Bedtime: 9:30

Level 2  (65-80%)

May watch television on your own

May be outside for up to 30 minutes without staff

May attend school activities unsupervised at staff discretion

May use Walkman while doing chores

Two 15 minute phone calls per day

Eligible for all outings

$2.00 allowance per week

Bedtime:  10:00

Level 3  (80% or above)

May be off grounds for up to two hours, at staff discretion

Three 15 minute phone calls per day

$3.00 allowance per week

May spend the night at a friend’s house with Case Manager approval

Bedtime negotiable

Eligible for all outings

May decide on one outing per week

Leads check-in at House Meeting

Represents residents’ issues at staff meeting

May participate in after school activities