A three-step process for developing a program to help youth learn independent living skills is described. The steps are: (1) identifying and ranking specific skills; (2) developing curriculum packages; and (3) involving adults from the local community to help teach those skills to youth. A list of 20 independent living skills is offered along with a recommendation to consider other skills which may be important to individual communities. Strategies for choosing from among these skills and for prioritizing them are provided. A guide to developing a survival skills curriculum includes a seven-step process and a sample curriculum. A list of printed resources, available from the Northwest Regional Educational Lab, resource organizations and people (primarily located in the northwestern United States) conclude the document. (DC)