Juvenile Assessment Center

Juvenile Assessment Center

“Strengthening Communities, Empowering Families, Guiding Youth”

Located: Centennial, Colorado, USA

Mission Statement

To provide a coordinated, multi-agency, single entry site which contributes to the safety of youth, families, and the community through early intervention, comprehensive assessment and improved access to appropriate services.

Vision

JAC is the premier leader in enhancing the futures of youth and families

Values

We value community safety through intervention and believe each youth and family has potential for positive change.

We honor the diversity and dignity of all youth and families, and their individual pathways to success.

We provide an opportunity for youth and families to have a voice.

We create an environment of trust by showing respect, listening, being open-minded and caring.

History

Opened in June 2000 as a program financially managed under the 18th Judicial District, District Attorney’s Office.

Original programming focused on community referrals for at-risk youth.

Relocated in 2003 to the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Detention facility.

The facility allowed for an expansion in programming and created a single entry site for all youth contacted by law enforcement

In 2009 the program transformed into a non-profit organization; a 501c3 corporation separate from the District Attorney’s Office.

Today the Juvenile Assessment Center performs free risk assessments for families through our community appointments, as well as for youth brought in by law enforcement irrespective of charge.

Organizational Goals

Work with identified at-risk and delinquent youth in the community in need of intervention.

Enhance public safety through comprehensive assessment, intervention and service referrals for at-risk and delinquent youth to include follow-up by JAC personnel.

Provide a single point of entry for law enforcement allowing them to return to their other duties in a timely manner.

Increase coordination of information and services.

Utilize an individualized approach tailored to obtain positive outcomes for youth, families and the community.

Increase effectiveness in the use of limited resources through the elimination of duplication of effort and enhanced accountability.

Facilitate better working relationships between agencies serving youth, families and the community.

Serve as a resource to the community concerning youth related issues and services.