Youth Intervention Programs
The Calgary Police Service believes early intervention is the key to keeping kids on the right track in life. Children identified as being at risk of criminal behaviour early and who get the help they need have a good chance of avoiding a criminal lifestyle. Focusing resources on addressing the root causes of youth crime and violence will make a significant difference in the long run.Youth at Risk Detail (YARD)
The YARD concept is based upon identifying youth that may be at risk or actively involved in gang activity. They voluntarily participate in the program along with their families to exit from the gang lifestyle and resist gang involvement.Gateway
The Gateway Initiative is a pre-charge diversion program for young offenders who have committed minor, non-violent offences, and who accept responsibility for their actions. It is a joint initiative of the Calgary Police Service and Youth Probation Services of the City of Calgary Community and Neighbourhood Services.About Face
The primary goal of the About Face program is to provide first time offenders 12-17 years old, with an alternative to being charged by the formal justice system. The objectives of the program are to encourage young people to take responsibility for their behaviour and show them the advantages of positive life choices. Youth are given a referral slip to attend a four hour workshop, which consists of videos, lectures, guest speakers, and interaction with police officers.Youth Diversion
This program provides youth who come before the court with assessment and early treatment options to deal with their mental illness. Early detection and intervention has the potential to reduce further criminal activity and help the youth manage their psychiatric symptoms.New Roads
This is a community program available to frontline police officers who encounter at-risk or 'priority' 7-11 year olds. This program takes the form of weekly workshops for 16 weeks, where the youth are educated and earn an opportunity to build skills, both of which are major resiliency factors.Updated: Wednesday, July 8, 2009 1:40 PM