Programs

Youth Link

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Youth Link is part of the Juvenile Justice Services program.

Research indicates that intervention programs help to reduce recidivism rates among juvenile delinquents. Further evidence suggests that early intervention in juvenile delinquent careers, particularly during the period of probation (but not incarceration) decreases the likelihood of recidivism.

The PAL Youth Link program aims to reduce the risk of recidivism among juvenile delinquents in NYC by offering an array of services not only during the period of probation but also continuing through the post-probation period. The Youth Link program will offer youth who are sentenced to probation the following services: individual counseling, group workshops, court advocacy, gang prevention, academic support and sports and recreational activities.

The primary goal of PAL’s Youth Link program is to have youth that have been mandated for services complete the terms of their probation, thus resulting in a successful exit from the juvenile justice system. The secondary goal of Youth Link is to have youth that were initially mandated for services, continue to voluntarily seek services from PAL once their mandated period has ended. This continued relationship between youth and PAL during the period following probation is crucial in reducing the risk of further criminal activity among youth.

Population Served

Youth Link provides services for youth (ages 12-16) involved in the Family Court system. Most of these youth are referred by the Department of Probation with a small percentage referred by Legal Aid Society. Youth Link maintains a close partnership with the referring agencies by providing continuous progress reports on participating youth. Youth Link consistently advocates on behalf of youth who are participating fully with program requirements. The average length of probation of referred youth is 9-12 months.

Program Components

Youth Link Program

The Youth Link Program takes place daily between 3pm and 8pm. Each participant is required to attend the program a minimum of 2 days per week (in addition to reporting to their probation officer). The program includes three core components: Counseling & Life Skills, Academic Enrichment, and Sports & Recreation.

Counseling & Life Skills

The Counseling & Life Skills component is considered the most relevant component of the three because it is within this component that the behaviors that often led youth into criminal activity are examined (e.g.: gang participation, school delinquency, etc.)Youth meet individually with a counselor each week to discuss any difficulties or obstacles youth may be facing in obtaining goals that youth have set for themselves. This is an important aspect of the program because programs are often ineffective because they are not individualized to address the unique needs of each youth. Weekly group workshops that educate and enhance social development are another key focus of this component. Topics include, but are not limited to, gang prevention, anger management, peer pressure, drug awareness, job readiness, budgeting and current events. These workshops are geared to help promote responsibility and positive social interaction.

Academic Enrichment

The Academic Enrichment component serves to address basic literacy skills. Many youth who are involved in the juvenile justice system are performing below their required reading levels. Homework assistance is offered as well as academic workshops. These workshops may include readings and discussions of books, magazines and newspaper articles.

Sports & Recreation

Sports & Recreation is the final component of the Youth Link program. The Police Athletic League is well known for the variety of sports and recreational programs it offers to NYC youth. These activities are available to all Youth Link participants as well. Activities such as board games and basketball will foster teamwork and positive interaction with other youth. Certain activities will be available on a daily basis (e.g. basketball, weight training) while others, such as rock climbing, will be offered periodically.

For further information about PAL's Youth Link program, please contact:
Mr. Bobby Ferazi, Director of Juvenile Justice & Re-Entry Services at (212) 433-0523.