Purpose

To provide comprehensive services to juveniles under the age of 14, utilizing a holistic approach involving the families, counseling services, in-home based services, mentoring and education. 

Goals and Objectives 

• Reduce Recidivism
• Foster healthy relationships
• Promote positive youth development
• Increase academic performance
• Strengthen family functioning
• Enhance public safety

Duration of Program

Participants receive six (6) months of intensive services and six (6) months of additional aftercare.

Eligibility Criteria

The target population for the Young Juvenile Offender Program is youth from the City of Newport News, who are under the age of 14 years, and previously charged with a criminal and/or CHINS offense.

Referrals can be made by subsequent agencies, following adjudication:

• Court Services Unit
• School System
• Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court
• Community Services Board
• Department of Human Services
• Department of Juvenile Services
• Family Assessment and Planning Teams
• Child Protective Services

Program Operations

The program's hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., as well as some evenings and weekends.

Benefits to Participants 

• Positive development opportunities and the development of pro-social skills
• Reduce or prevent future criminal activity
• Increased family structure and cohesion
• Positive peer relations

Unique/Innovative Aspects

The Young Juvenile Offender Program offers a family group therapy-based program, which is designed to foster communication and positive interaction between parent and child. The family group therapy-based program is twelve (12) weeks and includes parent to child communication, parent to parent support and discussions, as well as family activities and meals.

Parents receive experiences that enhance their self-esteem; develop communication, decision-making and negotiation skills; identify styles of parenting; and establish positive discipline.