The Detention Diversion Advocacy Project (DDAP) is a voluntary intervention alternative to court-ordered detention, providing young people with community-based support and supervision. DDAP strives to reduce the disproportionate number of minority youth involved with the court system in Boston's Dorchester community.

Program participants undergo an extensive assessment to determine the kind of support they need. An RFK advocate then presents a plan to the court that offers an alternative to detention and, ultimately, an opportunity to reverse their path to juvenile crime.

Some of DDAP's services include:

• As many as three daily contacts
• Connecting youth to partner agencies such as Youth Advocacy Project and the Streetworkers Program for additional support
• Providing a bridge to resources such as health care, education, counseling, drug treatment, employment opportunities and recreational activities
• Attending court appearances with youth and advocating on their behalf

Youth who are detained in a juvenile program are often on a fast track to a lifetime of crime. DDAP is a highly successfully program with a proven track record of moving youth away from juvenile delinquency. Youth learn how to use community resources and connect with others who can help them make positive choices about their own futures.

Contact:
Nichelle Sadler, 617.227.4183