Engage Young Adult Transitions

Connection is the outcome and the intervention Sometimes the best connections happen with a little adventure thrown in. At Engage, we get out into Cedar City to experience the real stuff that brings people together. Axe throwing, hikes, live music—these aren’t just activities; they’re opportunities for our young adults to connect, laugh, and feel like they’re part of this community. It’s more than just fun; it’s about building friendships and confidence in real-world settings. Cedar City gives us the perfect place to make those connections matter.

At Engage, we’re excited to have outstanding academic options right in our backyard. Located within walking distance of both Southern Utah University (SUU) and Southwest Technical College, Engage combines therapeutic support with convenient access to these educational resources. SUU provides our young adults with a broad range of degree programs, from liberal arts to professional studies, helping them explore their interests and build a strong foundation for the future. Meanwhile, Southwest Tech offers hands-on, career-focused training in fields like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades, allowing students to gain industry-specific skills that can lead to immediate job readiness. Our proximity to these institutions supports young adults in pursuing their educational and career goals while fostering independence. ?

Our young adults at Engage are getting into the Halloween spirit this week with a fun pumpkin-carving session! The young adults getting into their creative projects, each pumpkin showing a bit of their unique personality and imagination. It’s moments like these that remind us of the value of staying connected to that youthful, playful side—it’s about fun, and connection. Keeping a “kid-like” sense of joy and creativity is powerful, bringing a fresh perspective that fosters mental well-being and strengthens relationships. Happy Halloween from the Engage community!?

Nothing beats a crisp fall ride through the stunning colors of Navajo Lake! Every Thursday, our adventure coordinator leads Engage Young Adult Transitions on an outdoor adventure, and today, our young adults are mountain biking through the beautiful fall landscape. Outdoor activities like mountain biking, skiing, paddle boarding, and climbing are core to what we do at Engage. These experiences not only improve physical health but also play a powerful role in boosting mental well-being and fostering connection. The shared challenges and victories out in nature help create strong bonds that are essential for mental health. Connecting with nature and each other in these breathtaking surroundings truly enhances the therapeutic journey.

We are excited to share that Engage Young Adult Transitions has been featured in All Kinds of Therapy to announce the opening of our third house! This expansion reflects our commitment to supporting more young adults on their journey toward independence and personal growth. In this new house, young adults will continue their therapeutic work while building life skills, developing healthy relationships, and fostering emotional resilience in a structured, supportive environment. Our close proximity to Southern Utah University ensures opportunities for academic engagement and connection with the local community, helping normalize their experience while they navigate challenges.

This past week, the Engage team of therapists, directors, and case managers took time away from our usual routines to participate in equine therapy with Silver Lining Equine with Rashell Stubbs and Lee Bingman. It was an awesome opportunity to focus on our own growth, communication, and team dynamics, and it allowed us to experience firsthand the transformative power of working with horses. By taking this time, we are better equipped to foster deeper relationships, support each other, and create a nurturing environment for those we serve. Equine therapy is also available for our young adults at Engage, providing them with a unique way to explore self-awareness, improve communication skills, and develop emotional resilience. Thank you to Silver Lining Equine for guiding us through an enriching and meaningful experience.

One of the best things about Engage’s location is that we’re within walking distance of two fantastic educational options for our young adults! Southern Utah University (SUU) is perfect for those looking to dive into the full college experience, with small classes, a welcoming community, and tons of academic programs to explore. Whether it’s arts, sciences, or business, SUU helps students find their path and build solid connections along the way. Southwest Technical College (Southwest Tech) is ideal for anyone wanting to jump straight into hands-on, career-focused training. From trades and culinary arts to healthcare and IT, Southwest Tech offers flexible programs that lead directly to real-world careers. With both schools just a short walk away, our young adults have amazing opportunities right at their doorstep—whether they’re after a traditional college experience or quick-entry career skills. We’re excited to see them take advantage of these options and build a bright future!

At Engage, we recognize the importance of guiding young adults as they explore their career paths and future goals. To support this journey, we offer career and vocational testing and counseling through the Greenwood System. This tool provides valuable insights into each individual’s strengths and interests, helping them better understand potential career opportunities and directions. Our goal is to equip young adults with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about their career development. Through counseling and testing, we work with them to explore options, plan next steps, and build confidence as they navigate their future. By integrating the Greenwood System into our approach, we offer young adults the opportunity to gain clarity and direction as they plan their transition into the workforce or higher education.

Super excited to share that in August, we hit 128 days of fully reimbursing treatment for our families! This means real financial relief for our Engage families, which is something we’re really proud of. Our commitment is not just to provide exceptional care and support for our young adults, but also to ensure that families feel supported in every way, including financially. These reimbursed days are a reflection of our dedication to making a real difference in both the lives of the young adults and their families.

We’re excited to share that our Adventure Coordinator, Alejandro, recently took our young adults on a climbing trip in the stunning canyon just minutes from Engage. It’s always inspiring to see how outdoor adventures like this provide an opportunity for our participants to challenge themselves, connect with each other, and embrace the healing power of nature. At Engage, we believe in the importance of intentional connection, and our weekly adventure trips are a key part of this mission. These outdoor experiences aren’t just about the thrill of adventure—they’re about fostering a sense of community, building confidence, and creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.