NCJ Number
214459
Date Published
January 2000
Length
117 pages
Annotation
This federally supported study is intended as a guide and identifies promising and effective practices that will guide the future development of juvenile day treatment facilities in North Carolina.
Abstract
Utilizing several data collection strategies, a number of promising and effective practices for implementing juvenile day treatment programs were found. The practices and guidelines identified include: (1) the earliest stages of program planning should first identify local leaders who are able to strategically plan for the needs of the local juvenile population; (2) find a leader who is motivated to develop and operate a program to serve the needs of the juvenile population; (3) analyze relevant data to determine the needs of the juvenile population; (4) achieve consensus about the problems facing local youth and the assistance needed; (5) identify current gaps in services; (6) identify program goals and objectives; (7) find dedicated personnel to operate the program and select an experienced administrative structure to oversee the program; (8) locate an appropriate facility for the day treatment program; (9) integrate the program into the existing juvenile justice and support system structure; (10) establish arrangements with other providers to ensure treatment services are rooted in proven methods based on a case management approach; and (11) define a vision that guides the activities of the program and put the vision in a written format and incorporate the strategic aims of the organization. Juvenile day treatment programs are community-based programs which include intensive supervision, sanctions, and treatment of a juvenile offender in a nonresidential setting. The goal of day treatment is to reintegrate rehabilitated juveniles back into their schools and communities. This study supported by the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance is intended for judges, law enforcement officials, court personnel, criminal justice planners and others responsible for developing and implementing juvenile day treatment programs. It identifies promising and effective practices in the development of juvenile day treatment facilities in North Carolina. References and appendixes A-H