Youth Justice Network (YJN), formerly Friends of Island Academy, seeks to break cycles of incarceration and build an equitable justice system by supporting young people through individualized advocacy, mentorships and opportunities that help them grow, thrive and lead. Youth Advocates are paired with young people the day they arrive at the jail or detention center and serve as mentors, coaches, resource navigators and confidantes. At its community hub offices in Harlem, Brooklyn and the Bronx, YJN provides integrated programs and services for youth and families, including career counseling, job supports, court advocacy and arts workshops. It also operates a mobile outreach center called Shifting Gears, a purple van that travels into neighborhoods across NYC to make programs, resources and Youth Advocates accessible to all youth. This grant provides general operating support for YJN.
