Youth Justice

Racine County’s Youth Justice focuses on rehabilitation, skill development, and community reintegration for youth who have interacted with the legal system. Youth Justice works to prevent further system involvement by providing community-based services and intervention programs.

The Youth Justice Unit operates with a vision that all youth have the tools to thrive in adulthood. The foundational elements of the program include:

  • Connections – Youth are linked to supportive adults and their community.
  • Well-being – Services address social, emotional, mental, intellectual, and physical well-being.

Key guiding principles:

  • Youth-Driven – Youth define their goals and are active participants in their own success.
  • Relationship-Based – Strong, respectful relationships are central to positive outcomes.
  • Accountable – Youth take responsibility for their actions and work to repair harm.
  • Accessible – Services are individualized, flexible, and meet youth where they are.
  • Evidence-Informed & Trauma-Informed – Support is based on research and an understanding of trauma.
  • Culturally Responsible – Services respect each youth’s identity, history, and traditions.