Training and Technical Assistance for the Formula Grants Program

The National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center) proposes to provide training and technical assistance (TTA) to states and territories gubernatorial offices, including policy staff, and state agency leadership regarding the Title II Part B formula grant program. The purpose is to strengthen states' and territories' ability to comply with JJDPA Title II core requirements to receive or maintain formula grant funding; increase participation and compliance in the Title II grants program; highlight successful programs implemented using Title II funds that support juvenile delinquency prevention and intervention efforts and highlight best practices for improving juvenile justice systems.

Project activities include facilitating learning calls and focus groups with Governors' offices; hosting a convening on a Juvenile Justice for Governors policy advisors to facilitate information sharing; and providing states with access to specialized technical assistance to support their juvenile justice efforts, including best practices and innovative solutions for addressing delinquency prevention, treatment, and reentry.

Expected outcomes include: the identification of barriers to establishing and maintaining compliance with JJDPA's core requirements, assistance to increase participation in Title II funding, and the provision of evidence-based services to prevent youth contact with the juvenile justice system and programs for youth requiring treatment. The states and territories, including both participants and nonparticipants in the Title II grant funding program, are the intended beneficiaries of the project.