The Independent Living Program's life skills classes are conducted on a community college for several reasons. Community colleges are located throughout Los Angeles County. Upon graduating high school many ILP youth return to the community college system ready to learn vocational skills, become certified, and establish themselves in the community as contributing leaders and members. Many decide to continue their education and graduate 4-year universities. Many others continue life-long learning at the community colleges.
Transportation systems connect to the community colleges and are usually accessible.
Community colleges offer personal and economic development as well as academic pathways. Community colleges offer a wealth of resources and services for all their community members. Youth develop essential life skills within the college environment and have access to the academic, financial and economic development resources and services located on campus. In Los Angeles, the Community College Foundation is contracted through the Department of Children and Family Services to provide these services. The Foundation then subcontracts with eighteen community colleges to offer Independent Living Program.