HCJPD Non-Participating States Study

The Harris County Juvenile Probation Department proposes to implement the Harris County Opportunity Center Community Based Detention Diversion Program. The purpose is to develop a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, trauma-informed and best practices community-based program that serve young people with the goal of reducing racial/ethnic disparities in secured placement. Project activities include establishment of evidence-based MST trained vocational coaching program; expanded hours for program operation; increased support for transportation, increase connections with community-based internship placement to provide post-graduation care coordination. Program activities also include vocational skills training, academic training, job preparation, career exploration and planning, and skill-building services, including internships. Expected outcomes include the development of programming to meet the needs of a more diverse justice involved population, provision of evidence-based programs, reduction in recidivism and reduction in disparities in detention for young people of color.