The Department of Juvenile Services' mission is to implement a comprehensive strength-based continuum of community and juvenile justice services based on the inherent worth and potential of participants and their families.  The Department aims to always do the right thing for our residents and clients, staff, and communities, while upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity.

The Department's vision is to be a self-sufficient Department, with little dependency on outsiders; to be on the cutting edge of technology; and to accomplish our goals using a strength-based approach.  The Department seeks to become a role model for other agencies by implementing effective "best practices."

Focusing on Our Youth Because They are Our Future

The Department of Juvenile Services offers a myriad of multi-systemic programs which focus on juveniles and their families. Each of the programs utilizes the holistic and strength-based approach as a foundation for positive youth development while simultaneously strengthening family functioning. The primary goal of each approach is to view and assess the juvenile and his/her family's needs from a comprehensive perspective (holistic approach); whereas, the strength-based approach focuses on the abilities, knowledge, and capabilities of the youth and not merely the weakness or opportunities.

Message from the Director

It is my firm belief that every child deserves the best that life has to offer and that there are unlimited opportunities for growth and achievement.  Furthermore, I believe that it is not only my responsibility as the Director of this Department to assist our youth on the path to success, but it is also the responsibility of his/her family and community as a whole.  No person can achieve his/her goals alone; it takes a village.

Having grown up in the City of Newport News, Virginia, I have personally experienced some of the challenges facing our youth today.  Because of those challenges, I have dedicated over 20 years of my career to assisting those youth who are in need of service, and to steering them on to the “right” path.  My motto of “Always doing what is in the best interest of our kids” serves as my guiding light for decision-making.  I am truly committed to providing programs, services, and opportunities for juveniles and their families that will aid in improving and enhancing their lives.

 --Larry Robinson, Director of the Department of Juvenile Services