Fresh Start is a prevention/intervention program that provides services to youth ages 14 – 19, who are in trouble with the law or headed in that direction. The purpose of this program is to reduce crime and recidivism rates while increasing self-awareness/self-esteem, junior high and high school graduation rates, leadership qualities, community involvement, etc. We achieve this through four components of individual and group counseling, social development, life skills, and community service. At present Fresh Start consists of the Alternative Sentencing Initiative (ASI) that was developed for at risk, misunderstood youth who have been previously arrested, incarcerated or headed in that direction, as means of providing them with a “Fresh Start” at life. Through a partnership with the Queen’s District Attorney’s Office, participants are identified and engaged in a series of anti-crime, life skills and leadership training for a minimum of 12 months. They also receive therapeutic activities, job readiness, financial literacy and college preparation to prepare them for life after they complete the program.
Helping to Understand, Develop, & Stimulate the Minds of our Youth
