Youth Diversion Program

                                                                                                                                                                          Summer 2024   

The first-ever Tribal-State Youth Diversion Program in the Pine Ridge area, this groundbreaking initiative serves as an alternative to traditional court involvement for youth offenders aged 10 to 17. The OL-DBH Youth Diversion Program (YDP) aims to assist youth in understanding the consequences of their actions, becoming accountable, and steering them toward a positive and productive future. The program's overarching goal is to prevent recidivism and connect youth to protective factors that can support their development. YDP's approach combines individual needs assessment, counseling, education, and cultural activities in a voluntary four-month format. Focusing on reducing juvenile first-time and re-offenders entering the judicial system, YDP provides services to meet the needs of both the youth and their families. 

Program Components

Referrals to YDP can originate from juvenile courts, police officers, and school systems. Accompanying a referral is an arrest or incident report and contact information for the youth and their family. A Youth Diversion Coordinator (YDC) contacts the youth and family to schedule an initial assessment and intake session. Depending upon the offense and the individual needs of each youth offender, the YDC may recommend various interventions. Ultimately, the responsibility for the successful completion of the YPD program lies with the youth offender and the support of their family.

YDP Interventions include but are not limited to:

• Community Service Hours & Projects
• Alcohol and substance Use Testing
• Behavioral Health Assessment 
• Expression of Remorse
• Composition Assignments
• Group and/or Individual Counseling
• Educational Courses