Aftercare
Post-release services, supervision and supports that help committed youth transition safely and successfully back into the community
Without quality aftercare—the kind of post-release supervision, services and supports that young people need to make safe and successful transitions out of residential placement facilities and back to their home communities—the estimated 100,000 young people leaving juvenile institutions each year face failure, recidivism, and more incarceration. Unfortunately, quality aftercare is in short supply nationally.
The Models for Change initiative is working to develop better real-world models of aftercare throughout the project. Pennsylvania has selected aftercare as a targeted area of improvement and is working to connect youth with the programs and services they need to adjust and succeed after leaving residential treatment. The state is integrating treatment plans with aftercare plans to assist youth in overcoming problems, building on strengths, and acquiring essential living skills, and developing educational and employment programs to improve their life chances.
Through the coordination, planning and delivery of essential programs and services, Models for Change is developing models of aftercare that allow youth to make better choices and succeed.