In this issue:
- CJCJ youth get to be kids again during annual Great America trip
- Next Generation Fellows train to transform justice in California
- CJCJ’s behavioral health programs invest in San Francisco youth
CJCJ’s juvenile justice direct services programs hosted a field trip for youth clients to relax, experience something new and build positive bonds.
It’s July again, and that means CJCJ’s youth programs sponsor our annual field trip to California’s Great America! These field trips, like the Youth Justice Mentoring Program’s go-karting expedition in June, provide youth with an opportunity to share new experiences with case managers and mentors, and simply enjoy themselves.
“Our young people said that it feels nice to just be a kid again — have fun, escape, and not worry about anything but just having a good time,” said clinical case manager Karen Sarria.
Many CJCJ youth service providers accompanied a large group of young clients on the Great America outing. They spent the day riding rollercoasters, eating, relaxing and enjoying the marine exhibit. “A few of my kids got the once-in-a-lifetime chance to feed and play with the dolphins up close!” said clinical case manager Carolina Vargas. Youth justice mentoring coordinator Yessenia Pena Ruiz said, “We all had tons of fun, especially the kids! They were running from one ride to another, worry free!”
CJCJ’s juvenile justice staff members always look forward to the Great America outing and are happy to give the young people they work with an opportunity to have fun while feeling safe, which are vital experiences for healthy development.
Donate to support more outings for our clients »Learn more about CJCJ’s juvenile justice services »
Next Generation Fellows train to transform justice in CaliforniaEmerging leaders from across California convened to discuss transforming the criminal and juvenile justice system and learn about policy advocacy.
This month, CJCJ and our partners at Motivating Individual Leadership for Public Advancement (MILPA), launched the Next Generation Fellowship (NGF) — a two-day training for justice-involved leaders.
The NGF fellows gathered in Sacramento on July 17th-18th at The California Endowment offices, and participated in a series of workshops and presentations that sought to build an understanding of cultural healing and racial justice, and hone advocacy skills. The activities were rooted in fellows’ personal contact with the justice system, reflecting an understanding that lived experience is a form of expertise, which can profoundly influence decision-making.
The event featured reflection on engaging with the justice reform movement, training on key decision making processes, and a discussion of opportunities and challenges. Fellows put their preparation into practice by planning out advocacy strategies and conducting a series of legislative meetings with key staff from the California Senate and Assembly.
The NGF fellows also provided their perspective on their fellowship experience. Fellow Brayan Pelayo explained,“The Next Generation Fellowship has given me concrete skills and confidence plus a state-wide network of ferocious advocates that, when taken together, make a recipe for influencing impactful social change through policy.” CJCJ and MILPA look forward to the transformative impact the Next Generation Fellows will have on California’s justice system!
Donate to support future Next Generation Fellows »Learn more about CJCJ and MILPA’s Next Generation Fellowship »
CJCJ’s behavioral health programs invest in San Francisco youthAs California moves to shorten out-of-home placement stays for youth, CJCJ bolsters its mental health services to provide positive alternatives.
CJCJ’s behavioral health services play a crucial role in ensuring youth in our community are supported by qualified, caring professionals. CJCJ was recently awarded a new contract for its Wraparound program, which will allow us to continue providing impactful services to San Francisco youth and families.
We are also proud to announce that Terence Baugh has been promoted to CJCJ’s Director of Behavioral Health! Terence grew up in San Francisco and understands the stress of living in the inner city. “That’s why,” he says, “I’m passionate about empowering youth and families to determine their own path in life, and to help them feel the support of their community and to help them love themselves.” We are also excited to welcome CJCJ’s new Clinical Supervisor, Erica Spartos, who brings her extensive experience in child and family team collaboration, risk management, and many other skills to our team.
The goals of CJCJ’s behavioral health services are to cultivate behavioral health treatment plans, positive relationships, and ensure that youth have the tools and support to fulfill their potential. “Recently, we were really proud to see one of our clients be dismissed from probation,” said clinical case manager Karen Sarria. “We helped her do everything she needed to set up a permanent home in central California, like helping her get proper eyeglasses, clothing, and luggage. I also coached her through writing her resume so she could find a good job there. Sometimes what it takes for a youth to be successful is to have one person who is there to help through all the many random challenges in life.”
“The work is worth it to me when a client is successful, is doing something positive or is following their hopes and dreams,” says clinical case manager Booker Gray. “It’s a privilege to be able to have a positive impact on a young person’s growth.”
Donate to support services for CJCJ youth clients »Learn more about CJCJ’s behavioral health services »
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