(Statewide) – Agencies addressing juvenile justice issues in Indiana will soon have the opportunity to apply for funding as the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute opens three youth justice grant opportunities.
Beginning March 1, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) will accept applications for the Juvenile Diversion Grant Program, Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program, and Juvenile Behavioral Health Competitive Grant. These grant programs help support projects and initiatives that prevent or reduce juvenile offending.
“Opening the door to more funding for juvenile justice programs is about investing in the future,” said Devon McDonald, Executive Director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. “By providing resources, we empower communities to build stronger support systems, break cycles of recidivism, and give young people a chance to thrive.”
The Juvenile Diversion Grant Program is available for projects that support the operations and services delivered to youth involved in the juvenile justice system or to divert youth from the juvenile justice system.
The Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program is available for projects that provide alternatives to secure detention, out-of-home placement, and Department of Corrections facilities in the community. The goal is to reduce recidivism to improve positive outcomes for youth who are at risk of becoming involved in the juvenile justice system.
The Juvenile Behavioral Health Competitive Grant is a pilot program created to support jurisdictions, particularly in rural areas, to evaluate youth’s behavioral health needs and divert them from formal court involvement and out-of-home placement.
“Our youth deserve a chance to overcome challenges, not be defined by them,” said Renee White, ICJI’s Youth Director. “By opening more funding streams for juvenile justice programs, we equip them with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.”
ICJI will host webinars for organizations interested in funding throughout March so they can learn more about the programs and how to apply.
For more information about each grant program, visit the ICJI Youth website.
(Indiana Criminal Justice Institute press release)
