M.A.L.E.'s Juvenile Delinquency Prevention Program: A Prison Prevention Project

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), 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 recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, 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 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Men Aspiring Leaders through Education, Inc. (M.A.L.E.) will use the grant funds to provide juvenile delinquency prevention and intervention through mentorship, leadership, and education. M.A.L.E.'s goal is to collaborate with diverse individuals and organizations to provide a plethora of high-quality services and activities to youth at risk of offending, ex-offenders, juveniles, and children and families of incarcerated and rehabilitating offenders. The project will focus on areas such as workforce development, social and emotional development, interpersonal skills, social responsibility, productivity, community building, global education, leadership skills, identity formation, health awareness, and conflict resolution. Utilizing common sense and implementing evidence-based approaches and best practices. M.A.L.E.'s mission is to prevent, intervene, and reduce juvenile delinquency which ultimately will increase public safety. M.A.L.E.'s commitment is to "bridge the gap" between the community and the juvenile justice system to create safe environments and healthy youth particularly in Harris County, Texas.

NCA/NCF