What We Do
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Lao Tzu
The foundation for successfully redirecting detained youth and reducing recidivism is human connection for the kids in custody – connection that begins during detention and continues after release. Social emotional learning (SEL) is the forum for making this crucial connection. Through SEL class participation, students gain the skills necessary to forge paths of healthy development and disengagement from high risk and offending behaviors. Youth are also more likely to work with the plan assigned by the court once released. Successful execution of the court’s assigned plan is key to ending the cycle of recidivism, avoiding adult incarceration, and beginning a new life.
Our program empowers youth in Juvenile Hall through the healing power of emotional literacy classes, in combination with hands-on skills development in an organic garden. Upon release, these teachings are followed by internships and mentoring, which help youth take tangible steps toward success in school and at work. This combination of emotional support and reentry assistance makes real and permanent change possible. Through this two-step process, Next Steps empowers kids with skills and opportunity to help them stay free from detention and move forward with their lives.
Collaboration is the Key to Success
The Next Steps Liaison Project Requires a 3-Part Collaboration of:
Juvenile Hall and The Probation Department. These important institutions grant permission to Next Steps Liaison Project to provide both emotional literacy classes using the Power Source program (a proven, evidence-based SEL program for high-risk youth), and one-on-one mentoring services for detained/court involved youth.
Next Steps Liaison. The Next Steps Liaison Project connects with youth in detention through its on-site classes. When students are released back to the community, they may request a Next Steps Liaison to assist with their transition by providing a bridge to local resources. The "Youth Liaison" supports successful execution of probation, aligning opportunities with an individual's interests and providing assistance with the application process for jobs, internships, or extracurricular activities.
Bay Area Partner Organizations provide internships and job opportunities for youth, which correspond with each youth’s probation requirements.
