§352-23.5 - Gender-responsive, community-based programs for female adjudicated youth.

     [§352-23.5]  Gender-responsive, community-based programs for female adjudicated youth.  Subject to funding by the legislature, the office of youth services shall develop and make available gender-responsive, community-based programs for female adjudicated youth by providing female adjudicated youth the appropriate range of opportunities to ensure that their needs are met.  Program models designed to address the needs of female adjudicated youth shall include but are not limited to:

     (1)  Appropriate treatment, including mental health and substance abuse treatment;

     (2)  Individualized case management to help female juvenile offenders set and achieve goals;

     (3)  Life skills development workshops, including budgeting, money management, nutrition, and exercise;

     (4)  Development of self-determination through education; employment training; special education for the learning disabled; and social, cognitive, communication, and life skills training;

     (5)  Family-focused programming, including issues relating to pregnancy and single parenthood;

     (6)  Peer support and the development of peer networks;

     (7)  Transitional support for female adjudicated youth and their families to promote successful reentry into their families, schools, and communities;

     (8)  Highly skilled staff experienced in working with female adjudicated youth and their concerns;

     (9)  Formal recognition of participant achievement;

    (10)  Ongoing attention to building community-based support;

    (11)  Assistance for female adjudicated youth who need to develop a marketable job skill and a career plan;

    (12)  Geographical proximity to children and family;

    (13)  Preparation of female adjudicated youth for the resumption of their education; and

    (14)  The goal of providing a gender-responsive continuum of care. [L 2006, c 258, §3]

 

Cross References

 

  Parity for female offenders, see chapter 367D.