What is the program’s goal? The Incarcerated Youth Program is designed to provide a holistic approach to assisting youth offenders housed or recently released from local detention facilities with re-entering society possessing the skills and support necessary for their successful re-engagement back into society. As a result the program helps to minimize the overall recidivism rate in Fresno County.
When was the program established at EOC? 2000
Who do you help (client base)? Currently detained and/or recently released youth
What are the eligibility requirements? Individuals must be 14 - 21 years old currently detained or recently released from detention (within the last 6 months) and family income is at or below the poverty guidelines
How many clients do you serve monthly/annually? The program serves approximately 50 clients annually.
Who is the current program manager? Project Director – Jeff Davis Jr.; Program Coordinator – Carmen Soria
How many employees work for this program? 5
Where is your office / are your offices located? 1920 Mariposa Mall, Suite 303, in downtown Fresno
Tell us about one of your “success stories” Hugo Aguilera, a Incarcerated Youth Program participants, credits the program for transforming his life. After getting into some trouble, Aguilera - a former gang member - was sentenced to Elkhorn Correctional Facility. While at the correctional facility, Hugo enrolled in the program and completed training December 2006. Once released from Elkhorn, Mr. Aguilera applied at EOC’s Youth Build Program, and subsequently, was hired. In January 2007, Hugo enrolled at Fresno City College. As a result of his accomplishments, Mr. Aguilera was presented with an outstanding achievement award by the California Youth Outreach office.
