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Advocating for Equity, Empowerment, and Justice
San Joaquin County Youth Justice Coalition
The San Joaquin County Youth Justice Coalition (SJCYJC) is a community-driven initiative dedicated to addressing systemic inequities and empowering justice-involved youth and their families. Our coalition brings together a diverse network of youth, community-based organizations, advocates, and faith-based leaders to create lasting change through collaborative action, advocacy, and direct support.
Our Mission
We strive to reimagine justice for youth by advocating for systemic reforms, promoting alternatives to incarceration, and fostering resilience through culturally responsive, trauma-informed programs. Together, we work to ensure that every young person in San Joaquin County has the opportunity to thrive.
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What We Do
Participatory Defense Hub
The Participatory Defense Hub of the SJCYJC is a transformative initiative that empowers youth and their families to actively engage in the defense process. Our hub equips individuals with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to navigate the justice system and advocate for alternatives to incarceration. This collaborative and community-driven approach ensures that justice is fair, equitable, and centered on the needs of those directly impacted.
What is Participatory Defense?
Participatory Defense is a powerful model that transforms the courtroom experience by shifting the narrative from
punitive to restorative. Families and communities become active participants in shaping the defense strategies of
justice-involved youth. By working alongside legal advocates, they ensure that the youth’s story is heard and that
every possible alternative to incarceration is considered.
Why It Matters
Participatory Defense is more than a legal strategy, it’s a movement to reclaim power within the justice system. By
amplifying the voices of youth and families, we foster systemic change and advocate for solutions that prioritize
healing, growth, and community restoration.
Youth Leadership Development
We invest in the next generation of leaders by equipping youth with skills in advocacy, public speaking, and community organizing. Our programs foster confidence and provide young people with the tools they need to lead transformative change in their communities.
Collective Case Management- Comprehensive Support for Justice-Involved Youth
At the heart of the SJCYJC is our commitment to providing comprehensive, collaborative support for justice-involved youth. Through Collective Case Management, we bring together a network of advocates, service providers, and community members to address the unique needs of each youth and their family. This approach ensures a coordinated effort that prioritizes healing, accountability, and pathways to success.
What is Collective Case Management?
Collective Case Management is a team-based approach that leverages the expertise of diverse partners to develop personalized support plans for justice-involved youth. Our process integrates input from mentors, legal advocates, therapists, educators, and other community resources to ensure that every aspect of a youth’s journey is supported.
Our Impact
The SJCYJC has positively impacted the lives of over 150 justice-involved youth, advocating for alternatives to incarceration, reducing recidivism, and amplifying youth voices in local policy discussions. Through collaboration and innovation, we’re transforming the juvenile justice system to be more equitable and responsive to the needs of our community.
Whether you're a youth looking for support, a community partner interested in collaborating, or someone who wants to make a difference, we welcome you to join us in our mission. Together, we can create a future where every youth has the opportunity to thrive.