Our Program

In 2006, Juvenile Diversion Services was established to encourage and guide young people in becoming aware of their future and to develop the necessary skills needed to succeed. We have a balanced program of meetings and activities, including combining community service with learning about the court and legal system, conflict resolution, making better choices, and planning for the future. Our program is for students 11-17 years of age. We provide first-time misdemeanor offenders a positive alternative to juvenile court. Students facing criminal charges have the opportunity to participate in the program, although students may also participate to prevent actions leading to possible legal charges as deemed necessary by referring adults. Upon completion of the program graduates are invited to serve in an intern role providing an example to current students of the program. Meetings are held bimonthly for at least 6 months. All participants are required to complete either 40 hours of pre-approved community service or participate in up to 3 Saturday morning work projects with other youth and adults of the Diversion program.

Eligibility and Referral

Referrals to the program are generated via the Juvenile Divisions of Madison County Communities, police agencies, schools, and parents. Other factors include: prior criminal convictions, severity of the offense, facts sustaining proof of the alleged offense, and surrounding circumstances. Once a referring agency has contacted the Diversion office, an intake interview is scheduled with the youth and his/her parent(s) or guardians(s).

Successful Completion

Upon successfully completing the program requirements, the alleged offense will be dismissed by the municipalities. However, should a youth not meet the program requirements, they will be redirected to the charging agency, which typically results in prosecution. A graduation ceremony is held at the Madison County, Illinois Courthouse.

Meeting Topics Include

  • Madison County Courthouse- Induction and graduation proceedings and a discussion of program requirements with a judge, prosecutor, and law enforcement personnel.

  • Volunteerism- Benefits of volunteering and giving to the community, discussion of 40-hour community service requirement and the alternative of Saturday group projects.

  • Self-Esteem- Building positive self-esteem and the importance of healthy life choices.

  • Careers and Future Planning- Career planning, interviewing techniques, completing job applications, proper dress, and how to keep a job.

  • Drugs and Alcohol- Realities of drug and alcohol usage plus the medical and legal effects of substance abuse.

  • Decision Making- Accepting the responsibility for the choices you make.

  • Anger Management & Healthy Relationships- Controlling emotions through communicating about the problem.

  • Financial Literacy- Realities of planning, budgeting, and spending monthly income.

  • Internet Safety- Implications of social media and app use.

  • Law Enforcement Interaction- Demonstrations and conversations with local law enforcement.

Cost

Each youth is required to pay a $50.00 registration fee in order to participate, however no one is denied the opportunity due to inability to pay. Financial needs are considered on a case by case basis.