The Program Youth and Congregations in Partnership (YCP) is a program established in 1997 by District Attorney Charles J. Hynes.  It is a community-based intervention program promoting rehabilitation and the reduction of recidivism among Brooklyn’s court involved and at risk youth.  This goal is accomplished through the combination of intensive mentorship and comprehensive services.  As its name suggests, the Youth and Congregations in Partnership program establishes a connection between offending youth who will benefit from a second chance and the “helping hands” of volunteer mentors from faith communities throughout Brooklyn, “The Borough of Churches.”

The Participants
YCP services court involved and at risk youth between the ages of 13 and 22 who are referred to the Kings County District Attorney’s Office (KCDA) by judges, attorneys, probation officers, social service agencies and truancy programs.  Youth accepted into the program are believed capable of responding positively to rehabilitation efforts when given additional support.
 

The Partners
YCP is a collaborative effort between the KCDA, Brooklyn faith based organizations and Brooklyn community service providers.

KCDA Social Workers  -MSW Degreed, Certified Mentor Trainers, Court Liaisons, Available 24 
                                     Hours

Faith Based Communities -Mentor Volunteers

Community Service Providers -Community Counseling and Mediation
                                                -Brooklyn Center for Psychotherapy
                                                -Magnolia Tree Earth Center
                                                -Brooklyn Job Corps
                                                -New Directions
                                                -ArtShare
                                                -Other Partners

The Process
Youth accepted into the YCP program undergo a year long process of intensive intervention during which they are mentored by a committee of at least three trained volunteers and provided with the comprehensive services deemed appropriate by their assigned social worker.
 

The Policy
YCP is not a program of religious instruction or involvement, but it does operate in a religious environment.  The program is voluntary and participants acknowledge the religious nature of the setting.  The youth, however, are not required to participate in religious activities as a condition of the program, or as a test of whether he or she is cooperating in the program.

The Positive Results
YCP offers a rewarding alternative to incarceration and sentencing, equipping participants with the support and services needed to divert their lives from the destructive cycle of repeat offenses and onto a path of productive citizenship.  Successful completion of the program produces positive results for both the youth and communities of Brooklyn.

• Reduction of Youth Crime and Recidivism

• Increased Community Involvement

• Social & Academic Development

• Increased Youth Self-Worth

Funded By

The Pinkerton Foundation

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Joan B. Gabbidon
Senior Deputy District Attorney
Executive Director
(718) 250-2219