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YOUTH DIVERSION PROGRAM
YOUTH DIVERSION PROGRAM (RISE)
RISE supports youth through Restoration, Intervention, Service, and Education.
In 2024, the Salinas Police Department took a bold and transformative step toward fostering positive change in the community by launching its much-anticipated Youth Diversion Program. Made possible, in part, through a generous grant and our City’s support, the program represents the department’s commitment to reducing juvenile delinquency, enhancing community relations, and offering young individuals a chance to build brighter futures.
The Youth Diversion Program reflects our department’s dedication to supporting Salinas youth in meaningful ways. By addressing the root causes of juvenile delinquency, we aim to create a safer, stronger community and a positive path forward for at-risk youth.”
What Is the Youth Diversion Program?
The program targets at-risk youth in Salinas and offers them access to a variety of resources and opportunities that promote growth, accountability, and community integration. Instead of facing conventional legal repercussions for minor offenses, participating youth engage in restorative justice practices, educational workshops, mentorship programs, and skill-building activities.
This approach emphasizes accountability while addressing underlying challenges such as family dynamics, mental health, and educational barriers. By providing tailored support, the program aims to reduce recidivism and empower youth to make positive choices.
Addressing Community Needs
Salinas, like many cities, has faced challenges stemming from youth engagement and crime prevention. With community leaders and law enforcement working together, it became evident that an innovative approach was required to address the root causes of juvenile issues. The grant-funded Youth Diversion Program is designed to intervene early, diverting young individuals away from the criminal justice system and guiding them toward positive paths.
A Collaborative Effort
The Youth Diversion Program is not just a Salinas Police Department initiative—it’s a collaborative effort involving local schools, nonprofits, mental health professionals, and community organizations. Together, these partners ensure that each participant receives comprehensive support tailored to their unique needs. The program also includes mentorship opportunities, connecting youth with local leaders and role models who inspire them to envision and work toward brighter futures.
Impact on the Community
Early evaluations during the launching of this program have shown promising results. We anticipate participating youth demonstrating improved behavior, academic performance, and stronger connections to their community. Families of participants have also praised the initiative for offering hope and guidance during challenging times.
Looking Ahead
The grant, which enabled the creation of the Youth Diversion Program, has not only empowered local youth but also set the stage for further community-focused projects in Salinas. As the program evolves, the Salinas Police Department and its partners hope to expand its reach, ensuring that more young individuals benefit from its transformative approach.
With its launch in 2024, the Youth Diversion Program marks a new chapter in Salinas’s journey toward fostering understanding, reducing youth-related crime, and building a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.