The Impact of Investing in Community-Based Programs For Systems-Impacted Youth

We’re proud to share our new report, The Impact of Investing in Community-Based Programs for Systems-Impacted Youth, which highlights the life-changing power of community-driven solutions for justice-involved youth. This report underscores why investing in community-based organizations (CBOs) is essential to creating a justice system that fosters growth, healing, and brighter futures.

Justice-involved youth often face barriers rooted in trauma, inequitable social conditions, and unstable environments. Traditional punitive systems fail to address these root causes, leading to recidivism and further disconnection. CBOs change the narrative by providing tailored, trauma-informed care that meets youth where they are, fostering trust, empowerment, and growth.

Report Highlights:

- Trinity Youth Services’ SAFETTY Program: A trauma-informed approach helping youth develop life skills and reunite with families. This program boasts a 100% permanency rate within a year of completion.

- Rancho San Antonio’s Youth Diversion Program: Offers trauma-informed, strength-based interventions to prevent deeper involvement in the justice system. Their creative arts program helps youth heal through expression.

- Youth Testimonies: Participants describe feeling “truly heard and supported,” building trust with mentors and peers who share lived experiences.

Legislative Wins in 2024: Our advocacy efforts, alongside community partners, helped pass crucial laws:

- AB 1877: Automatically seals juvenile records upon turning 18, eliminating barriers to employment, housing, and education.

- AB 866: Empowers youth to independently access opioid use disorder treatments, ensuring timely and life-saving care.

Investing in these programs benefits the youth and society as a whole. Reduced recidivism, increased opportunity, and stronger communities are the outcomes of prioritizing care over punishment.

As one participant shared: "Their consistent presence, offering love, support, and resources, was a lifeline for me. No matter how much I struggled, they never gave up on me. That left a lasting impact."

Read the Full Report: https://shorturl.at/KjJWS