Our Programs
Diversion Program
The Diversion Program supports youth who are beginning to show destructive behaviors, facing early juvenile justice involvement, or needing guidance before challenges escalate. The goal is to provide mentorship, accountability, family support, and positive exposure early enough to help young people make better decisions.
About This Program
The Diversion Program is designed for youth who may be first-time or nonviolent offenders, youth experiencing behavioral issues, or young people referred by schools, gyms, churches, community centers, or other trusted community sources.
Jacob's Ladder helps youth address challenges early through mentorship, structure, support, and positive intervention — before those challenges lead to deeper legal or system involvement.
Who This Serves
Diversion helps intervene before destructive behaviors become chronic, violent, or harder to change. By reaching youth earlier, Jacob's Ladder helps them build a stronger path before they become more deeply involved in the juvenile justice system.
WATCH PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Get a quick look at what this program is, who it serves, and why it matters.
Who This Serves
Youth beginning to show destructive behaviors, youth with early juvenile justice involvement, and young people referred by schools, community organizations, churches, and trusted community sources in Prince George's County.
Credible Messenger
Recipient of the Prince George's County Council Community Recognition Award for Juvenile Re-Entry.
Mentoring
Connection to a consistent mentor who provides guidance, accountability, and positive support.
Life Coaching
Structured sessions focused on decision-making, behavior, and building a positive path forward.
Family Involvement
Parents and guardians are engaged in the process and given tools to support their child at home.
Strengthening Families
Access to the certified Strengthening Families program to build family communication and stability.
Field Trips
Positive community experiences and exposures that expand youth perspective and opportunity.
Trade Career Connection
Introduction to the Trade Career Academy as a pathway toward skills, career, and employment.
School-Based Support
Working with schools to reduce discipline incidents and keep youth engaged in their education.
Behavioral Guidance
Practical strategies to help youth recognize and interrupt destructive patterns of behavior.
Accountability Check-Ins
Regular contact with program staff to track progress and ensure consistent positive direction.
What Participants May Receive
Program Goals
The goal is to help youth understand that destructive behaviors need to end, prevent escalation, strengthen family support, and connect young people to positive activities, mentors, and opportunities before deeper system involvement occurs.
Program Moments
Photos from this program will be added here to show participants, activities, events, learning experiences, and community moments connected to this work.
Program Videos
Program videos will be featured here as new stories, recaps, and participant experiences are added. Check back to see the work in action.
Diversion Program Overview
Family and Community Impact
How diversion programming changes outcomes for youth and their families.
Early Intervention in Action
Stories of youth whose paths changed through timely support and mentorship.