Overview
The DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) is taking a proactive approach to violence prevention among young people with the DC Youth Leadership Oasis program. This program provides support and services to young people at high risk of delinquency in collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders.
Goal
The primary goal of this program is to intervene and deter youth from the criminal justice system by building on their strengths and those of their families through mentorship.
Target
To participate, candidates must be between the ages of 10 and 17, live in the District of Columbia, and have a referral from a DC agency.
The Program
The program consists of 16 weeks of intensive programming, with ten youth per cohort and new cohorts beginning monthly. Youth and families will receive ongoing support and services, including mentorship and community connections.
The program takes place in community centers and school campuses, with weekly sessions focusing on developing resilience and coping skills. Participants will also engage in an outdoor education program for three nights and four days, with the opportunity for siblings and guardians to join in the last days of programming.
This initiative is a positive step towards addressing violence prevention among young people and providing them with the necessary tools to thrive.