Each year in New Castle County, a large number of youth are brought through the juvenile justice system for the first time. The youth are released under ‘Level Two’ probation. This status comes with the condition that the youth must participate in an assigned intervention program. Youth Moving Forward is one of these programs.
The youth are required to participate in the program for a period of six (6) months. DYRS (Department of Youth Rehabilitative Services) refers the youth and his/her parent or guardian for an initial interview and extensive intake process. If deemed necessary, the services of a social worker are utilized in an attempt to identify and address any pre-existing conditions that may pose a challenge to the youth and his/her family. The social worker assists the family in locating community resources to address any challenges.
After the intake process is complete, the Program Coordinator matches the youth with a mentor. The mentor then spends two hours per week with the youth for a period of six months. Contact with the youth consists of social and recreational activities.
