The Pacific solution to a broken juvenile justice system | The Pacific | ABC News

Key Concepts:

• Youth Justice
• Cultural Programs
• Rehabilitation
• Risk-taking behavior
• Holistic Approach
• Trauma-informed care
• Community Support
• Welfare vs. Justice Models
• Accountability
• Social Context
• Sustainability

Program Overview and Objectives

• Pacific and Australian Community Services (PACS) runs a youth program aimed at supporting young people involved in or at risk of involvement with the justice system.
• The program focuses on cultural connection, physical activity, and mentorship to promote positive change.
• The goal is to provide a safe and positive environment where young people can learn about their culture, develop life skills, and make better choices.
• The program aims to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior, such as child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and family history of incarceration.

Program Structure and Activities

• The program follows a "30-30-30 model": 30 minutes of content (e.g., workshops), 30 minutes of recreational activities, and 30 minutes of "breaking bread" (sharing a meal).
• Cultural activities are a key component, helping young people connect with their heritage and build a sense of identity.
• Physical activities promote health and well-being.
• Mentorship from staff and community members provides guidance and support.
• The program operates on Wednesday nights, but there is a desire to expand to full-time operation.

Challenges and Successes

• Initially, the program faced challenges with gang-related issues, requiring intense workshops and one-on-one work to integrate rival groups. It took 6-9 months to bring the two groups together.
• A significant success story involves a young person considered high risk who was close to being transferred to jail. Through the program's support and his own accountability, he turned his life around, completed TA courses and his HSC, and became the first in his family to do so.
• Staff dedication is crucial, often working long hours and making personal sacrifices to support the young people.
• The program faces skepticism from some who believe that certain young people are beyond help.

Philosophical Approach

• The program emphasizes a holistic approach, addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior rather than solely focusing on punishment.
• It aligns with the welfare model of justice, which seeks to understand the context of a person's actions and provide support to prevent future offenses.
• The program values cultural understanding and incorporates diverse perspectives into its approach.
• Staff members strive to connect with the young people on their level, building trust and rapport.

Impact and Testimonials

• Young people express feeling loved and supported by the program staff.
• The program has been credited with helping young people overcome anger issues, find purpose, and make positive changes in their lives.
• One young person shared his aspiration to become a real estate agent after being in custody.
• Another young person wants to teach younger boys of his African heritage about training as a way to escape problems.
• A nurse noted that a young person who had attempted suicide smiled for the first time in days after seeing program staff.

Future Goals

• The primary goal is to secure funding to run the program full-time, more than once a week.
• The program aims to increase its reach and provide support to more young people in the community and in custody.
• Sustainability and longevity are key concerns, ensuring that the program can continue to make a positive impact on young lives.

Notable Quotes

• "We're talking to people that have been in our shoes before, you know, we're not talking to scientists with a clipboard."
• "It explains a lot of their behavior, but it's not an excuse for their behavior."
• "Through this program, we do plant seeds, and we can start changing mindsets."

Technical Terms/Concepts

• AOD: Alcohol and Other Drugs
• HSC: Higher School Certificate (New South Wales, Australia)
• TA Courses: Training Accreditation Courses
• Youth Justice: The system of laws, policies, and practices that govern the treatment of young people who are accused or convicted of crimes.
• Custodial Settings: Refers to facilities where individuals are held in custody, such as juvenile detention centers or prisons.
• Holistic Approach: Addressing the whole person, including their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
• Welfare Model: A justice system that focuses on understanding the context of a person's actions and providing support to prevent future offenses.
• Justice Model: A justice system that focuses on punishment for crimes committed.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The PACS youth program is a valuable resource for young people involved in or at risk of involvement with the justice system. By providing cultural connection, mentorship, and a safe environment, the program helps young people address underlying issues, develop life skills, and make positive changes in their lives. The program's success is attributed to its holistic approach, dedicated staff, and focus on building relationships with the young people it serves. The ultimate goal is to expand the program's reach and ensure its sustainability so that it can continue to make a positive impact on the community.