For decades, educators, policymakers, and criminal justice professionals have sought effective crime prevention strategies. Although some communities are experiencing success, the country is plagued with escalating juvenile violence, which has compelled policymakers to turn their attention from prevention to “Get Tough” tactics. This approach may work initially but does not have long lasting effects on the youth’s mental, social, or emotional stability once they enter back into their communities.

The Most Fortunate Foundation approach to remedy this revolving door of Youth crime-incarceration- release- youth crime is implementing effective strategy which include comprehensive approaches that provide opportunities for education, mentoring, conflict resolution training, and safety; engage youth and their families; and are community-based and integrated.