The Center for Youth Justice supports and educates leaders across systems of care to advance a balanced, multi-system approach to improving outcomes for youth at risk. The Center for Youth Justice at Georgetown University supports and educates leaders across systems of care to advance a balanced, multi-system approach to improving outcomes for, and promoting the positive development of, youth at r
isk of youth legal system involvement. Michael Umpierre, the current director, works closely with Georgetown’s other policy centers and departments in leading the Center’s efforts. A research center within the McCourt School of Public Policy, the pillars of our approach going forward will be grounded in the pursuit of five core goals:
--Advancing a strength-based, holistic, and developmental approach for youth, because after all, we must always remember that these are kids
--Promoting authentic, meaningful, and impactful youth and family partnerships, always remembering the mantra of “nothing about us, without us”
--Preventing legal system involvement for youth in the first place where possible and embracing community-driven models and approaches;
--Strengthening cross-system collaboration and partnerships to minimize burdens on youth and families, maximize precious system resources, and achieve positive outcomes for all; and
--Advancing racial justice and equity in the youth legal system; our work must not and cannot cease until all youth and families have equitable opportunities to thrive.
