The Fresh Start Program, which is located at 120-55 Queens, Blvd., Rm G-5, Kew Gardens, NY  11415, was designed in partnership with Community Partnership Referrals & Resources.  Fresh Start is an alternative to incarceration program for at risk, misunderstood youth.  We provide prevention and intervention techniques through four core components: Individual Counseling, Social Development, Life Skills, and Community Service.

The Queens District Attorney’s Office has partnered with The Fresh Start Program to begin the QDA Youth Diversion Program.  The Queens DA’s office hand selects participants they feel are in need of a fresh start.  Fresh Start then completes a psychosocial evaluation to ensure there are no circumstances that would prevent the participant from completing the program successfully.  Fresh Start, the QDA’s office, and the defendant’s attorney then determine if the program is a good match for all parties.  Once the defendant has been accepted, he or she signs a contract pleading guilty to all charges in the case and agree to participate in the QDA Youth Diversion Program.  

Participants are held accountable for what they do in school, at home, in the program and within the community.  Community service is required at minimum of twice a month.  Each participant receives at least one individual counseling session per week and is involved in 2-3 group sessions during the week.  Failure to participate, arrive on time, or be respectful during school, program or community service is considered an infraction of the program.    

Each participant engages in a series of (3) phases: Anti-Crime, life skills and leadership.  Participants will have increased awareness and critical thinking skills in the areas of personal and social development. Through therapeutic activities and outreach, participants sharpen problem resolution, communication and decision making skills.  The participants also learn job readiness, public speaking, financial literacy and college preparation to prepare them for life after the Youth Diversion Program.

TARGETED DEMOGRAPHIC
At risk youth, ages 14 – 19 that are in trouble with the law or headed in that direction.
There will be a minimum of 30 participants in the program on an annual basis.

 PURPOSE & GOAL
·         Provide a safe and healthy environment for teenagers and young adults to discuss everyday life issues not limited to parent-child conflict, peer pressure, gang violence, bullying, self-esteem, depression, anger management, alcohol & substance abuse, domestic violence, bereavement, teen parenting, sex, sex abuse and sexuality

·         Boost behavioral standards at school, home and throughout the community to increase junior high school and high school graduation rates while decreasing youth recidivism rates

·         Provide creative and critical thinking techniques to increase self esteem, self respect and leadership qualities which in turn will foster positive decision making skills

·         Promote positive and effective family communication and interactions

·         Promote community awareness and the importance of giving back by engaging in various voluntary community projects.