El Nido makes a difference in Los Angeles.
Offering a variety of programs, both large and small, to enable adolescents in challenging circumstances to cross the bridge to responsible adulthood. Our programs have taught youth concrete skills to advance their educational and career goals and to postpone parenthood until they can truly provide for their families. The Los Angeles Police Department has hailed our model on its effectiveness in preventing subsequent arrests among youth referred.
Compton Youth Development Program - NEW!
The Compton Youth Development Program (CYDP) addresses the broader issues for males and females at risk of delinquency, gang involvement, school failure, dropout and teen parenting. CYDP offers a counseling component that promotes behavioral health, educational attainment and vocational planning. CYDP meets the need for positive youth development activities, partnering with foundations, corporations, other non-profits and volunteers to offer a range of appealing, educational and skills-building programs.
Program outcomes included:
• 85% of youth showed increased knowledge of and onnecton with community resources, including supplemental education, health/family planning services and job training.
• 75% showed improved planning for their personal futures, including education, employment and family life.
Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD)
The Gang Reduction and Youth Development Program (GRYD) is funded through the Office of the Mayor, City of Los Angeles. Program goals are to reduce gang participation by identifying youth (10–15) who are at high risk for joining gangs. GRYD provides comprehensive assessment, counseling, psychosocial education and case management to address underlying risk factors. A key strategy is to link youth and families with a broad range of services, engaging them in constructive activities, connecting them with positive social supports and empowering them as agents of change. GRYD serves youth and families living in the Pacoima/Foothill region of the northeast San Fernando Valley.
Probation Deliquency Prevention/Intervention Program
El Nido works closely with L.A. County Probation to individualize intervention for youthful offenders at risk for incarceration. In addition, counselors work with young people (8-17) referred by schools for behavior problems on campus that could lead to criminal behavior in the community. Services range from individual and family counseling to tutoring and career planning. Underlying issues, such as domestic violence or substance abuse at home, are confronted and addressed through appropriate referrals. El Nido staff closely monitors both youth and their families to ensure progress and prevent subsequent arrests.
Program outcomes included:
• 90% of youth demonstrated improvement in at least one of the following indicators: School Attendance, Achievement, Classroom/Community/Home Behavior and School/Social Activity Involvement
Youth Advocacy Program
LAPD refers young people to a structured group counseling series as an alternative to juvenile court processing. Adolescents come to recognize the consequences of anti-social behavior and learn better ways to handle the stresses of school and urban family life. Case managers connect them with services they need, such as tutoring or substance abuse treatment. Simultaneous groups for parents break down denial, teach effective discipline strategies for teens and set the stage for real communication and progress.
Program outcomes included:
• 92% of youth participants reported improvement in communicating with parents and family interactions.