Vantage Point (VP) is a home-like facility meant to be a safe place for preteen and teenagers age 10-17. It is a short-term shelter for vulnerable youth, as well as crisis intervention.

A youth has left home without permission, is at risk of homelessness, is experiencing suicidal ideation and is appropriate to divert from a hospital setting, is experiencing high family conflict, and other crisis related situations. It is not appropriate to use Vantage Point for babysitting. We cannot serve youth severely disabled youth who cannot care for their own hygiene or basic needs.

Yes! Youth may check themselves in; however, a parent and/or guardian is contacted for permission and to further coordinate services.

Parents and guardians are always in ‘the driver’s seat’ when it comes to length of stay and guardians work closely with therapists to determine a safe exit from Vantage Point. Generally it is a few days unless circumstances warrant a longer stay. We also offer “day only” options for youth who need a short break but are ready to go home sooner or do not need overnight supervision. Vantage Point is funded by the State (JJYS, Wasatch, and DCFS) systems and Federal sources (Runaway and Homeless Youth grants). The first few days are funded through grants. Should a longer stay be warranted, therapists will work with the family to determine appropriate out of pocket costs, if any, should a longer stay be recommended

No. Vantage Point cannot be ordered by juvenile court systems as a punishment. It is also not meant to be a punishment used by parents. It is to offer a safe place and support so that safety isn’t compromised in the home or community. It is not a lock-down facility. All placements are voluntary and children are monitored 24/7. There are alarms on doors and windows. Efforts are made to prevent runaway behavior, but youth are not physically restrained. Should a youth run, law enforcement and guardians are contacted.

Youth follow a schedule that includes meals (approved by a nutritionist), skills groups, therapeutic support, physical activity, homework/educational support, and more.

Before checking in, we prefer the guardian call ahead to ensure we have space available for youth and to go over necessary items to bring. Youth should bring a few changes of modest and weather appropriate clothing and prescription medication in the original packaging. If they have homework they would like to work on, that’s appropriate. All belongings are searched and inventoried at check in, and there are inappropriate items youth are not allowed to have (no electronics during their stay, no lighters, weapons, sharp objects, gang apparel, etc.). Upon arriving at VP, youth and parents will meet with an intake worker for the necessary paperwork. Guardians, please anticipate 20-30 minutes of paperwork at intake.

Upon intake, guardians will indicate and give permission for who may contact a child; this includes options for phone calls, on site visits, and taking the child off-site. It is discouraged to have peers and friends call and visit youth at VP, as it is often distracting and can compromise safety.

Vantage Point is a 24/7 facility. Therapists are typically there from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and are available on a weekend for needs assessments and crisis intervention. Case managers are generally available from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.

Yes; male, female, and non-binary youth are served at Vantage Point. They participate in group activities together during the day and separated for sleeping arrangements. We have the capacity for 12 youth at each location, not including ‘day-only’ youth who do not require sleeping arrangements.

We do not prescribe medication. Upon intake, medication must be brought in original pill bottles and a registered nurse fills the pill boxes according to dosage and prescriber instructions. Our staff are then trained to administer it. Guardians must give consent for all medications given, including over the counter medication.

VP employs a program manager, an administrative assistant, supervisor therapists at each location, and two therapists at each location. We also employ numerous case managers and dozens of human service workers. All staff have passed comprehensive criminal and background screening.

Vantage Point serves Utah, Juab, Millard, and Wasatch counties.

Youth must be able to care for themselves hygienically. Youth who are inebriated or otherwise impaired must be cleared medically before being admitted. Youth who will not commit to safety while at VP are generally not admitted. Youth with sexual charges are screened to ensure safety.

If a youth is suicidal, please call 988 for immediate support. If the youth can commit to safety while at VP, the youth will be admitted and placed on high supervision levels and meet with a therapist to discuss safety. Staff will watch for suicidal behavior and if needed, pink slip to a hospital. Should a youth not commit to safety, please explore further options by calling 988.

Urine analysis tests are generally not administered at Vantage Point. Should there be tests available, they must be administered by a parent or guardian. VP staff cannot force a youth to take a drug test.

Please call Vantage Point to ask how youth can participate in aftercare groups such as anger management, etc. A therapist will also work with you to determine what aftercare options are available.

Parents and guardians are responsible for picking up youth from Vantage Point. A therapist and/or case manager will work with you on a safe exit and discharge day/time. Failure to pick up your child will result in a report to the Division of Child and Family Services.