Probation Department Gateway Program

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

Probation Department Gateway Program San Bernardino, CA Population: 1,963,535 The Probation Department Gateway program is an 18-month commitment to house and treat male juveniles who have committed non-violent offenses. The program is geared towards those with prior delinquent history and aims to reduce recidivism. Each juvenile is interviewed and assessed to develop a treatment plan. The staff works directly with the youth on education, mental health treatment, programming, vocational and medical needs. The two part program first focuses on developing stable and positive relationships with peers and staff, complete assessments, establish a treatment plan, become oriented with the program and begin cognitive restructuring. The next phase is community based and is aimed at reintegrating the youth back into the community. The focus in this phase is on job skill development, completion of education, possible job placement and family reunification. The Gateway program also offers aftercare services to those who promote from the program. Youth in the Probation Department Gateway Program have a 36% recidivism rate, less than half of the state’s 80% rate. Fifty-six percent of graduates are motivated to change their ways following program completion. Sixty-eight percent of the juveniles received their GED, 7% their high school diplomas and 5% are at or above grade level. The success of the program has allowed expansion from just 707(a) kids to both 707(a) and 707(b) kids.