In this insightful video, professionals working in juvenile justice and community programs share their frontline experiences with diversion initiatives for youth. They discuss the legal frameworks, policy obstacles, and practical considerations involved in creating and implementing effective diversion programs, covering key topics such as eligibility criteria, rights protections, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainability. The discussion highlights lessons learned from real-world cases and offers guidance for organizations aiming to develop or refine youth diversion pathways. Whether you’re a practitioner, policy-maker, or educator in the juvenile justice/prevention field, this conversation offers concrete take-aways for advancing equitable, effective alternatives to formal system involvement.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation