Youth Advocate Programs, Inc.’s Post

🚨A recent federal report reveals critical issues in Texas juvenile justice centers, highlighting the urgent need for reform. Discover the key findings and implications for our youth. 📰  Read more here..👇 #TexasJuvenileJustice #YouthReform #ConroeNews

Which words or emotions do you have when watching this video? One statement about the previous methods used to deal with such SEND people rather reminds me of Charles Dickens’ character Ebeneezer Scrooge. “Are there no prisons? Are there no workhouses?” “If they’d rather die [rather than go there], then they better do it, and decrease the surplus population.” I can appreciate a councillor looking to address the ever-increasing budgets required to support those within a SEND bracket. Every council is faced with difficult decisions about what to fund and what to cut. But this is clearly the wrong way to go about it. And this for me is the classic dilemma of perpetuating out-dated, bureaucratic, patriarchal thinking. And calling out such pompous baffoons is needed. And I bring this to you as an (increasingly) old white man with an ADHD diagnosis, and as a step-father of a SEND young person. I haven’t seen the entire recording of the meeting or seen them in other contexts, so if you forgive some artistic licence, I could envision that these men will operate with limited challenge as to their out-dated, ill-informed, off-the-map views of the world. We’ve all worked with them and seen them throughout numerous structures across the land. And when you consider that a councillor is employed to; · represent the views of their community, · provide community leadership to improve services and the quality of life for their citizens, · develop policy and strategic direction to best serve the people. There is a clear mismatch here and dare I call out people that are clearly not meeting expectations within their positions? But to what avail? Performance management? Public outrage? Mutiny? Perhaps no more than a slap on the wrist will happen. Something to shrug off, to pooh-pooh and to take them back to the “good old days.” But this is the sort of behaviour that requires holding such people to account, even putting them out to pasture and to focus on the next generation of councillors with a bit more nouse, open-mindedness, and the solution-finding navigators that know they won’t be able to please everyone with their decisions. Yet they will be respected for their ability to take on board new information, be able to evolve their thinking, and bring about proactive change to meet the needs of their local constituents. Perhaps it’s time for a shaking of the councillor tree? #SEND #warwickshirecouncil #patriarchy Link to video: https://lnkd.in/ddeFjA6J

This article helps explain why we have a youth justice program that includes, "healing and rehabilitation through what [is called] a "circle," bringing together victims, offenders and community members." Read the full Star Tribune article here: https://bit.ly/49oZkf8

All around the country, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP) is working with communities to support youth programs, disrupt cycles of violence, and reduce youth crime. Read about the groups who work with OJP in Seattle to make a difference in people's lives: https://lnkd.in/ebszqqBb #doj #ojp #youthjustice

🌟 Raising Awareness: Understanding Juvenile Delinquency 🌟 Juvenile delinquency is a critical issue that affects our communities, families, and future generations. As a juvenile justice database specialist, I believe it’s essential to shed light on this pressing topic and advocate for effective solutions. 📊 Did You Know? Approximately 1.5 million youth are arrested in the U.S. each year, with a significant percentage being first-time offenders. Around 70% of youth who come into contact with the juvenile justice system have experienced trauma, including abuse or neglect. The recidivism rate for juvenile offenders can be as high as 50% within three years of release. 🔍 Why Does This Matter? Understanding the root causes of juvenile delinquency—such as poverty, lack of education, and family instability—can lead to more effective prevention and intervention strategies. Investing in early intervention programs, mental health resources, and educational support can dramatically change the trajectory for at-risk youth. 🤝 What Can We Do? Educate: Share information and resources within your networks to raise awareness. Advocate: Support policies that promote rehabilitation over punishment for juvenile offenders. Volunteer: Get involved with local organizations that work with youth in the justice system. Together, we can create a positive impact and help steer young people away from delinquency and toward brighter futures. 💬 Join the Conversation! What steps do you think we can take to address juvenile delinquency in our communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

🌟 Transforming Juvenile Justice with Restorative Practices 🌟 In our ongoing efforts to enhance the juvenile justice system, it’s crucial to spotlight the powerful impact of Restorative Justice. This approach is not just about managing behavior—it’s about fostering understanding, healing, and positive change. 🔄 What is Restorative Justice? Restorative Justice is an approach that focuses on the needs of the victims, the offenders, and the involved community. Instead of prioritizing punishment, it seeks to repair harm by encouraging accountability and healing. 💡 Benefits of Restorative Justice in Juvenile Justice: 1. Reduces Recidivism: Studies show that juveniles who participate in restorative programs are less likely to continue down a path of delinquency. 2. Heals Communities: By involving community members in the healing process, restorative justice strengthens ties and enhances communal support. 3. Empowers Victims: It gives victims a voice, an opportunity to be heard, and a chance to contribute to the resolution of their harm. 4. Encourages Accountability: Offenders understand the impact of their actions, encouraging deeper personal responsibility. 5. Supports Positive Outcomes: It promotes rehabilitation and reintegration rather than stigmatization and alienation. 🤝 As we continue to advocate for a more just and equitable society, integrating Restorative Justice within our juvenile systems presents a path forward that builds stronger communities and fosters resilience among our youth. Let’s commit to understanding and promoting practices that support not just punishment, but rehabilitation and reconciliation. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of many young individuals. #JuvenileJustice #RestorativeJustice #CommunityHealing #LegalReform

The Importance of Vision in Juvenile Justice Reform In the realm of juvenile justice reform, vision is our guiding light. It empowers us to imagine a future where every young person is given the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of their past mistakes. A clear vision directs our efforts, fosters innovative solutions, and ensures that our policies and practices are not just reactive but transformative. At Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility, our vision is to create a nurturing environment that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment. By embracing this forward-thinking approach, we aim to break the cycle of recidivism and help our youth build brighter futures. Vision in juvenile justice reform isn't just about the destination; it's about the journey. It's about creating pathways for growth, fostering resilience, and instilling hope. Together, with a shared vision, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable system that truly supports the rehabilitation and development of our youth. #JuvenileJusticeReform #Vision #Transformation #Rehabilitation #FutureLeaders

✍ "Social policy, which covers all aspects of child protection, is a necessary component of juvenile delinquency protection and prevention policies. Using the "four D's" model: diversion, de-judicialization, de-institutionalization, and due process, the article will help define the role and assess the effectiveness of social, family, educational, and other assumptions for child protection." Our new article on "Restorative vs. Punitive Approach. Eight Fundamental Principles of Juvenile Delinquency Prevention" is available in Human Rights Protection and Ius Puniendi. European Union and its Neighbours in a Globalized World, vol. 11. Springer. 👉 Go to link: https://lnkd.in/d_2_my4v

Maximizing the Moment in Juvenile Justice Reform: Be an Agent of Change In the ever-evolving landscape of juvenile justice, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment. This is a time ripe for transformative change, where the actions we take today can yield profound outcomes that benefit not just individual youths, but entire families and communities. As professionals in the field, it is our responsibility to seize this opportunity with both hands. By championing innovative approaches and evidence-based practices, we can reshape the system to be more just, equitable, and supportive of the young people it serves. Let’s focus on holistic solutions that address the root causes of juvenile delinquency and prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. Collaboration across systems—education, mental health, social services, and law enforcement—is essential to create a supportive network that fosters growth and resilience. Being an agent of change means advocating for policies that promote restorative justice, investing in community-based programs, and ensuring that every young person has access to the resources they need to thrive. It also means listening to the voices of those most affected by the system—youths, their families, and communities—and incorporating their insights into our reforms. Together, we can create a juvenile justice system that not only corrects but also nurtures. Let’s maximize this moment to produce outcomes that uplift families and strengthen communities. The future of our youth depends on the actions we take today. #JuvenileJusticeReform #AgentOfChange #CommunityImpact #RestorativeJustice #YouthEmpowerment

The Transformative Role of Community-based Programs in Juvenile Justice Reform Restorative community-based programs are more than support systems; they are critical in providing alternatives to detention and incarceration. Offering mentorship, education, and resources that guide youth and young adults towards opportunities for success—defined by the youth and family—these community-based programs also deliver a first-response to the social determinant of health needs of youth and families, such food, housing, transportation, and employment support. Connecting these resources combats root-causes such as poverty and living and growing up in areas systematically disenfranchised. My experience has shown me the transformative power these programs can have. What role do you think community programs will play in the future of juvenile justice? Please list the programs that you know are making a difference. Let’s highlight and celebrate these programs and people making a real impact in our communities every day. #JuvenileJusticeReform #CommunityPrograms #YouthDevelopment #AlternativePathways