Making Impact While in Prison
KYC
Kumbatia Youth Care Program
The Kumbatia Youth Care (KYC) Program provides practical assistance and tailored support for life beyond prison. It is an intensive, client-centered, holistic, culturally appropriate, and trauma-informed initiative geared towards promoting personal growth and developing pro-social skills. The program is voluntary, and intended for multicultural youth, ages 14-24, to help them successfully reintegrate to the community. KYC addresses individual needs through outcomes-based support, training, and community engagement opportunities, aiming to reduce the risk of reoffending. The program is primarily conducted while the youth are in juvenile detention. Upon successful completion of Kumbatia and successful reintegration into the community, youth are transitioned into the Karibu program for support to further develop and reduce the risk of re-offending.
Eligibility
KYC is open to young people who are:
- Involved with the justice system.
- Between the ages of 14-24 years.
- Residing within the west catchment area, with exceptions for referrals outside this area.
Program Aims:
1. Support Successful Reintegration:
- Facilitate the smooth transition of youths back into their communities after involvement with the justice system.
- Provide comprehensive support that addresses individual needs, promoting long-term success and reducing the risk of reoffending.
2. Promote Personal Development and Well-Being:
- Enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and decision-making skills through targeted workshops and individual sessions.
- Foster self-esteem and identity development, helping youths build a positive self-image and resilience.
3. Build Practical Life Skills:
- Equip participants with essential skills for independent living, including financial literacy, employment readiness, and healthy relationship management.
- Provide vocational training and educational opportunities to improve employability and career prospects.
4. Enhance Community Engagement and Leadership:
- Encourage active participation in community service projects and leadership development activities.
- Cultivate a sense of responsibility and purpose, empowering youths to become positive contributors to their communities.
5. Foster Cultural Identity and Competency:
- Celebrate and explore the cultural identity and heritage of participants, promoting pride and resilience.
- Educate youths on cultural competency and diversity, fostering empathy and understanding to create a more inclusive community.
6. Support Holistic Health and Wellness:
- Provide guidance on physical health, nutrition, exercise, and self-care practices to support overall well-being.
- Offer mental health support and trauma-informed care to address emotional and psychological needs.
7. Facilitate Restorative Justice:
- Use restorative justice practices to address harm caused by participants, promoting accountability and empathy.
- Engage in dialogue and mediation to repair relationships and foster healing within the community.
8. Provide Tailored Case Management:
- Conduct comprehensive needs assessments and develop personalized reintegration plans for each participant.
- Offer ongoing individual support and coaching to help youths achieve their personal and professional goals.