What We Do
Helping Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System
Resilience & Strength
in youth.
The Link’s Youth Advocacy Programs provide support for youth who are between the ages of 10 and 24 who have been involved in juvenile crime and the juvenile justice system within Hennepin County. We know that youth who are engaging in juvenile crime often do so as a means to survive – because their needs are not being met or they/their family are struggling with poverty, housing instability, mental health issues or other kinds of crisis. Our Youth Advocacy Programs partner with youth to help them identify the underlying reasons for engaging in juvenile crime and develop a plan to overcome these barriers. Youth are empowered to accomplish the positive goals they have for themselves and envision a different future that doesn’t involve criminal activity.
Community Based Interventions
The Link offers juvenile detention alternative programs to prevent youth from entering juvenile detention while empowering them with resources and opportunities to avoid future involvement in crime. All programs offer youth basic needs resources, one-on-one case management, and support youth pursuing their goals related to health, education, and employment.
School Matters
School Matters empowers youth ages 12-17 who are experiencing truancy with the resources and trusted relationships they need to re-engage in their education, improve academic outcomes and get on track to graduate.
RILE (Rooted in Lived Experience) Advisory Committee
Youth who have experienced truancy or involvement in the juvenile justice system oversee our Youth Advocacy Division and participate in the movement to reform the juvenile justice system.