Strengthening youth connection with the community: Improving Youth Reentry

The Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) will implement the DJS Second Chance Community-Based Reentry Program. The purpose is to develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, trauma-informed, and best practices community-based reentry program for individuals committed to DJS for out-of-home placement. Project activities include establishing a Reentry Advisory Board, implementing evidence-based risk and need screening and assessment tools, developing and implementing a Multidisciplinary Reentry Collaborative Case Management and Coordination Team, and designating community-based organizations to provide post-release care coordination. Expected outcomes include the development of a multidisciplinary team to address the reentry needs of individuals exiting the committed residential facilities, provision of evidence-based services, reduction in recidivism, and regular program assessments.