In an October 12 article published by Behavioral Health News, Jeanie Burton, Program Director of our At Hope Youth & Family Advocacy Program, examines Florida’s youth incarceration challenges and the importance of restorative justice programs that emphasize accountability, rehabilitation, and positive outcomes over punishment.
“Even while research shows harsh punishments and long sentences don’t rehabilitate kids — they keep them coming back. There needs to be another way to hold kids accountable because, right now, we are manufacturing the outcomes we claim to be fighting against.”
— Jeanie Burton, MBA, JM, Program Director of At Hope, JFCS
At Hope provides free, voluntary services for children and teens involved in diversion programs for nonviolent offenses, as well as those at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. Through individualized case management, mentoring, counseling referrals, educational support, and other services, we help young people address underlying challenges, take responsibility for their actions, and build a more promising future.
Our approach focuses on repairing harm rather than simply punishing behavior, helping youth move forward while remaining connected to their families, schools, and communities.
Click here to learn more about how our At Hope program is making a difference for restorative justice.