From Prevention to Diversion: The Role of Afterschool in the Juvenile Justice System

Post
Young kids in a canoe

The Afterschool Alliance discusses how afterschool and summer learning programs can mitigate risk and support the development of protective factors that help keep young people out of the juvenile justice system. The afterschool field can also operate as a point of service to support youth already involved with the juvenile justice system, serving as diversion programs or alternatives to detention that keep youth from reoffending. Through a wide expanse of programming opportunities, partnerships, and coordinated efforts, as well as supportive policies—including the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) and 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative—afterschool programs keep young people safe, connect them to the supports they need, and help build protective factors and positive social connections that lead to bright futures.