Justice-involved Youth Mentoring

We work closely with youth aged 12-18 who have committed crimes and are incarcerated or on probation, or those who have been placed in a diversion program — an alternative to formal court processing for youth accused of misdemeanor crimes.

Our approach has two components:

1. Programs and materials based on culturally appropriate, trauma-informed content that encourage pride and respect for cultural values, practices and beliefs. 
2. Weekly Wellness Mentoring Circles, led by experienced facilitators, that offer a safe space for youth to focus on skills needed to excel in school and in life. These include self-confidence, critical thinking, relationship building and sound decision-making. 

To maximize impact and accountability, we have implemented a streamlined communication process that uses technology to connect with juvenile probation counselors and diversion community monitors. 

Engaging with families

Youth who have additional academic or behavioral needs also attend one-on-one mentoring to get them back on track. If a youth is still incarcerated, our mentors arrange in-person visits at least once a month, attend court hearings and meet with counselors as appropriate. After release, mentors meet with their mentees every week, either in group or one-on-one mentoring sessions.

We also work with the families, providing housing vouchers, food assistance, school-based interventions, workshops on financial literacy and parenting skills, and other support. In return, we ask parents and guardians to attend weekly healing circles where they can engage in candid reflective discussions that help in their own healing process.