Justice Involved Youth Pathway

Innovation in Reintegration: A New Path Home.

At the Youth Connected Program (YCP), we believe every young person deserves a clear path back to their community. In partnership with the Orange County Probation Department and CalOptima Health (HHIP), we are launching an innovative "step-down" pathway for juvenile justice-involved youth.

By utilizing our proven, trauma-informed dorm model, we provide a structured bridge that eases the transition from probation back into the family unit.

This 12-month journey is designed to stabilize both the youth and their support system through two distinct phases:

How the Program Works

Phase 1: Residential Stability (6 Months)

Youth reside full-time in YCP dormitories, gaining stability in a supportive, family-like environment. During this time, family members receive dedicated care coordination to prepare the home for their return.

Phase 2: Supported Reunification (6 Months)

After leaving the dorms, youth reunify with their families. YCP provides an additional six months of intensive care coordination to ensure the transition is stable and the family remains equipped for long-term success.

Our holistic approach focuses on the skills and resources necessary for independence:

  • Life Skills Coaching: Essential training for self-sufficiency.

  • Structured Environment: 24/7 individual support in a safe, routine-based setting.

  • Intensive Case Management: Focused on stabilization and permanency planning.

  • Family Reintegration: Dedicated navigation and resource support for caregivers.

  • Holistic Coordination: Integrated access to education, employment, and mental health services.

Core Components of Support

A Community Investment

For the Youth & Family

  • Heals and strengthens the family unit

  • Improves long-term housing security

  • Addresses trauma-informed needs

For the Community

  • Reduced recidivism rates

  • Increased youth self-sufficiency

  • A safer, more connected community

Investing in this step-down model is an investment in the future of Orange County. By moving families from survival to success, we create a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

Championing the Future

This groundbreaking pilot is a joint commitment between the Orangewood Foundation, CalOptima Health, and the Orange County Probation Department. We are actively advocating for policy alignment and sustainable funding to ensure every young person leaving county placement has a supported journey home.