Youth Justice

Our Facilities

Open Custody

Ray of Hope’s Open Custody Facility offers a place of hope where young men aged 12-17 are able to carry out their court-appointed sentence. Open custody facilitates the integration of youth back into society through community involvement and open discussion with counselors and parents/guardians.

Each resident is given the chance to change their life by learning the importance of responsibility, accountability and self-care. Our workers also form relationships with each resident and encourage them to uphold the principles of structure and stability. Ray of Hope staff work with each young offender’s parents/guardians and probation officer to develop a plan of support.

This process assists youth in identifying their risk and need areas and helps them work toward positive change in both their personal life and social relationships.

Secure Custody

Ray of Hope’s Secure Custody Facility offers a safe place for youth aged 12-17 to carry out their court-appointed sentences. Youth in this program have committed serious crimes and secure custody gives them an opportunity to redirect their lives.

Our on-site school, sports, trades and chaplaincy programs help youth develop life skills and alternative strategies to cope with conflict. Our staff is committed to giving youth the support they need to make wise choices for their lives. We offer each resident an individualized Plan of Care. The staff evaluate each youth’s unique situation and develop a plan to assist youth in overcoming personal, social and spiritual challenges. Working directly with the parents or guardians of each resident, our case workers help youth and their families work together to change their lives.

Programs Offered

Life Skills Program

Through educational seminars, guest speakers and counseling sessions youth are encouraged to overcome a variety of life challenges including substance and alcohol abuse, sexuality and general health issues.

Educational Program

Ray of Hope provides on-site education to all residents. Attendance is mandatory and youth have the opportunity to study from a variety of programs. Attendance at a regular education program within the community can also be arranged.

Spiritual Discovery Program

Ray of Hope encourages youth to explore their own spiritual issues through a Volunteer Chaplain Program and visitations from religious and spiritual leaders from a variety of faiths within the community.

Work Program

Youth at our Open Custody Facility may be eligible for our Work Program. Placement as either a kitchen worker or maintenance worker at the facility teaches youth the importance of responsibility and work management skills.

Reintegration Leave Program

Youth at our facilities have the opportunity to apply for a Reintegration Leave (RL) which allows them to temporarily leave the facility to participate in community services under supervision of a community member. Youth are invited to attend alternative education, employment, counseling and religious services.

Trades Training

Our Secure Custody Facility offers hands-on training in various construction trades such as welding, dry-walling, and basic electricity. By developing life skills, youth are shown the potential they have within themselves and are empowered with a new sense of purpose as they transition back into their community.

Sports Program

Youth are given the opportunity to participate in athletic programs either within the community or the custody facility where they reside. Athletics help youth develop life skills in team building, conflict-management and encourage healthy lifestyle choices.

Please contact us or call 519-741-8881 for open custody and 519-634-8883 for secure custody regarding further information about these programs.