The National Juvenile Justice Network has released a new policy platform document on Youth Reentry/Aftercare – providing policy makers and advocates some basic guidelines and ideas to work toward when youth are placed in residential or correctional facilities. One of the things we do know about almost all youth who are placed in a facility is that they will be coming back to the community. Even in the best of worlds where the facility programs are well-run, in which youth learn new useful skills, and youth are motivated to make positive changes, making that transition back successfully will not just happen. Like other platforms from NJJN, this one covers the basics of what can be a pretty complex component – but, the bottom line is that we need to spend as much, if not more, time and resources on reentry as we do on placement. Check it out!
Early Care & Education in the Fox Valley
Every child deserves a solid foundation in life, regardless of income. Affordable and accessible early care and education ensures that parents can get to work and sets children up for a strong start. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how child care is critical for children and families and why early care and education providers are an essential part of our local communities and a thriving economy.