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H.E.A.T. for Youth is a 12-week culturally relevant, strength-based empowerment group designed for Black male youth ages 13 to 21 who are involved in the juvenile justice system. The program is rooted in the respect and celebration of Black culture, using that foundation to build community, establish trust, and create an environment where young men feel supported rather than judged.
H.E.A.T. addresses the whole person, including the spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, environmental, and experiential aspects of each participant's life, because that is what it takes to create real and lasting change. The program validates the life experiences of participants and offers tools to work through the emotional, psychological, and environmental challenges that influence their self-image, behavior, and decision-making. Rather than focusing on deficits, H.E.A.T. centers the resilience and strength that young Black men already carry. The goal is for each participant to leave with a stronger sense of identity, increased motivation, and the skills to make choices that align with who they want to become.
Participants also receive individualized case management throughout the program and transition into a 3-month aftercare period upon completion.
Who it serves: Male youth ages 13 to 21
Group size: 8 to 10 participants
After program: 3-month aftercare and monthly alumni field trips
Areas of focus: Black identity and culture, historical resilience, self-image and identity, emotional regulation, accountability, healthy relationships, goal setting, purpose and future planning, spirituality and connection
H.E.A.T. for Youth is a 12-week culturally relevant, strength-based empowerment group designed for Black male youth ages 13 to 21 who are involved in the juvenile justice system. The program is rooted in the respect and celebration of Black culture, using that foundation to build community, establish trust, and create an environment where young men feel supported rather than judged.
H.E.A.T. addresses the whole person, including the spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, environmental, and experiential aspects of each participant's life, because that is what it takes to create real and lasting change. The program validates the life experiences of participants and offers tools to work through the emotional, psychological, and environmental challenges that influence their self-image, behavior, and decision-making. Rather than focusing on deficits, H.E.A.T. centers the resilience and strength that young Black men already carry. The goal is for each participant to leave with a stronger sense of identity, increased motivation, and the skills to make choices that align with who they want to become.
Participants also receive individualized case management throughout the program and transition into a 3-month aftercare period upon completion.
Who it serves: Male youth ages 13 to 21
Group size: 8 to 10 participants
After program: 3-month aftercare and monthly alumni field trips
Areas of focus: Black identity and culture, historical resilience, self-image and identity, emotional regulation, accountability, healthy relationships, goal setting, purpose and future planning, spirituality and connection