Citizens for Juvenile Justice

ABOUT CFJJ: Citizens for Juvenile Justice (CfJJ) is the only independent, non-profit, statewide organization working exclusively to improve the juvenile justice system in Massachusetts. We advocate for smart policies that prevent crime, help youth develop into responsible citizens, and use scarce resources wisely. While CfJJ works closely with many organizations that provide direct services to youth and families, we do not provide any direct services.

Our advocacy includes information gathering and policy analysis; preparation of reports and fact sheets; outreach to and work with policy-makers, stakeholders in the juvenile system, other system constituents, advocates, community groups and academics; and coalition-building. We use multiple communication strategies to educate the public and inform decision-makers, including one-on-one meetings, presentations, and conferences; traditional and social media; email and our website. We are respected for being knowledgeable, resourceful and fair-minded policy advocates.

Our current policy agenda includes, but is not limited to, improving the collection and use of data and evidence-driven practice throughout the juvenile justice system, reducing unacceptably high racial and ethnic disparities at key points in the system, and diverting young people who could be better served in the community from formal system processing.

CfJJ’s small, energetic staff currently consists of its Executive Director, Director of Operations, Senior Policy Associate, Program Assistant and Fair Sentencing Program coordinator. In addition, we often have at least one intern (undergraduate or graduate school). CfJJ’s Board includes child advocates, mental health professionals, and other leaders in the public and private sector. Our office is in downtown Boston, readily accessible to public transportation.