Programs for At-Risk Juveniles

Programs for at-risk youth have been around since the late 1990’s due to society’s interest in the growing crime rate and delinquent conduct of our youth. The early failures of these programs prompted several studies across the country to determine the value youth programs have on helping at-risk youth becoming successful contributing members of society. Research looked in depth in all aspects of youth programs ranging from monetary value of saving high-risk youth, substance abuse prevention, participation, effects programs had on at-risk youth, what elements successful programs implemented, and what types of programs attract the diverse group of young adolescents. Because of these studies researchers were able to identify what works to attract and keep at-risk youth engaged with these programs long term. Studies also support that high quality at-risk youth programs should be implemented throughout the country because of the positive findings from research of these programs over the last two decades.