Programs - Post-release transition services (Aftercare)

In 1999, the Tidewater Youth Services Commission underwent a program evaluation study of our services conducted by a team of researchers from Old Dominion University.  One of the recommendations of the study was that we include follow up services to help youth and their families sustain gains made while in out of home placements.  In a 2000 study, the American Youth Policy Forum published a comprehensive report about what works (and what doesn’t) in Juvenile Justice Services.  One of their key recommendations was: 

“Make quality aftercare a core component of juvenile corrections programs to help youthful offenders make a successful transition back into their community.” 

For several years, the Commission did have post release services which were funded through a grant from the Department of Criminal Justice Services.  However, as the grant money was reduced, the Commission could no longer fund the position and it was eliminated.  This crucial service has now been reinstated thanks to the support of our charitable partner, the Tidewater Youth Services Foundation. 

The primary purpose of the Post-Release Transition Program is to create a bridge between out of home placement and return to home or a less restrictive setting.  Objectives of the program are as follows: 

• Provide support to parents/guardians in maintaining structure,  supervision and effective communication skills;
• Assist youth with social skills and problem solving skills retention.  Specifically, the Transition Specialist will facilitate the transfer of Aggression Replacement Training skills to the home and school environment;
• Assure that appropriate clinical and educational services are in place;
• Provide crisis intervention to help families navigate inevitable “rough spots”;
• Empower youth and families to access community resources and natural system supports.

 

The service delivery design will be case follow up for up to 90 days after graduation from the program.  Youth and families with more intensive needs will be referred for In-Home Services.

To learn more about Aftercare,  click here  and scroll to the bottom.  Read "Jesse's Story:  In the Flow"