Youth and Family Engagement
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We are committed to fostering meaningful connections with young people and families impacted by the juvenile justice system. We recognize that sustainable change in juvenile justice and youth outreach requires a collective effort, bringing together diverse perspectives, skills, and resources.
Our approach to engagement focuses on creating spaces that align with the goals, needs, and interests of those most impacted. As a state-wide policy and advocacy organization, working alongside communities is essential to supporting effective juvenile justice reforms. Engagement may take many forms, such as amplifying youth voices through our blog or facilitating visits for families to the state capitol, where they can share their priorities directly with legislators.
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Our core values serve as a compass that guides our interactions and decision-making processes. They are the foundation upon which we strive to build trust, respect, and collaboration. As you explore the values list below, you’ll gain insight into how we approach this work:
Respect
Guiding Principles:
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We treat every person with dignity, regardless of their background, past actions, or current circumstances.
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We recognize and honor diverse backgrounds, cultures, and identities, tailoring initiatives sensitive to these differences.
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We value and incorporate the perspectives, opinions, and input of justice-involved youth and their families.
We work to honor the inherent dignity of everyone we meet.
Empowerment
Guiding Principles:
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We acknowledge that each person has their own lived experience that shows up in this work.
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We work to understand and empathize with youth and their families' challenges, experiences, and emotions.
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We believe that compassionate approaches create trust and connection.
We acknowledge and support each person’s power to foster positive change.
Empathy
Guiding Principles:
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We acknowledge that each person has their own lived experience that shows up in this work.
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We work to understand and empathize with youth and their families' challenges, experiences, and emotions.
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We believe that compassionate approaches create trust and connection.
We meet people where they are.
Mutually Benefical
Guiding Principles:
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Our collaborations and interactions are designed to provide positive outcomes for all parties involved.
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We create programs and initiatives that mutually benefit the community, the juvenile justice system, and the youth and families it serves.
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We collectively define success and work towards common goals.
We strive for equitable exchange in our relationships.
Transparency
Guiding Principles:
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We encourage open communication between justice system stakeholders, youth, families, and community members to facilitate dialogue, address concerns, and promote collaboration in decision-making processes.
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We commit to openly sharing information, insights, and challenges to foster a culture of trust and accountability among all collaborators.
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We commit to transparency as an ongoing learning and reflection process to identify areas for improvement.
We believe open communication and accountability build trust.
Lasting
Guiding Principles:
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We offer ongoing support and resources for juveniles and their families as we work toward positive change.
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We create lasting pathways to support youth as they navigate the complexities of the juvenile justice system and beyond.
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We work to encompass an adaptable holistic approach that includes systemic change and community-level impact.
We build relationships and practices that can continue and be relied on.
As advocates for a fair juvenile justice system, we apply these principles daily. From developing youth engagement programs to influencing policy changes, we approach each initiative with a collaborative mindset, recognizing the strength of working together toward a shared vision of justice and support for our youth and their families.
By adhering to these core values, we aim to create a more compassionate, effective, and equitable juvenile justice system and youth outreach programs. Through collaboration, we strive to empower youth, support families, and build a resilient and inclusive community for the well-being of all.
If the juvenile justice system has impacted you or your family and you want to get involved with our work, please complete the form below.