Youth First Prevention Project

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Youth First, Inc. will use the FY 2009 Congressionally Selected Award to prevent and combat juvenile delinquency, especially substance abuse and the associated risk factors which contribute to escalating criminal behavior. The project targets youth attending schools in Vanderburgh County, Indiana and will utilize a prevention model developed by Youth First. The model involves partnerships with schools and other community agencies to assist at-risk youth and families through evidence-based prevention programs and practices. This project will support 7.5 Master's level school-based social work positions, as well as training, supervision, and services including implementation of the nationally recognized Reconnecting Youth program. The project's primary goal is to reduce risk factors and increase protective factors associated with substance abuse and juvenile delinquency.

NCA/NCF