• Assistance with finding and securing housing 

• Arranging for community-based services and supports 

• Post-transition follow-up and monitoring 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by: 

• Colbert Consent Decree (for Cook County) 

• Williams Consent Decree (for Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Facilities statewide) 

• Illinois Statewide Transition Plan for Home and Community-Based Services 

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) 

3. Licensing or Certification 

No specific license is mentioned, but providers must be approved by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) or the Department of Human Services (IDHS). 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) oversees the Community Transitions Initiative, while IDHS manages transition services for youth with disabilities. 

5. Application Process 

Providers interested in participating should: 

• Contact HFS or IDHS to express interest in becoming a transition provider 

• Complete required training and documentation 

• Enter into a contract or grant agreement with the appropriate state agency 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers must submit: 

• Proof of compliance with program requirements 

• Staff qualifications and training records 

• Policies and procedures for transition services 

• Reporting and documentation systems 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline for approval is not specified. Providers should contact HFS or IDHS for more detailed information on the approval process and expected timeframes. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. However, potential providers should familiarize themselves with the Consent Decrees and transition program requirements. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

Providers must complete training on: 

• Community Transition Initiative processes 

• Person-centered planning 

• Housing resources and assistance 

• Care management for individuals with chronic conditions 

10. Additional Notes 

• As of March 3, 2025, Maximus is contracted to provide outreach and assessment services for Colbert and Williams Class Members, with outreach visits beginning December 1, 2024, and transitional assessments starting in January 2025 

• The Community Transition Program helps people with disabilities overcome barriers to leaving nursing homes, such as isolation, lack of resources, and lack of family support 

• Transition services for youth with disabilities include programs like Fast Track Transition and Pre-employment Transition Services (PTS-VR)  

• Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) may receive incentive payments for successful transitions of members from nursing facilities to community settings 

• Providers must ensure adequate staffing levels to transition all eligible individuals who choose to reside in the provider's geographic coverage area.