Hillside’s commitment to serving youth, adults and families requires an equal commitment to evolution. Adding or expanding programs must be done carefully, and only to meet the recognized needs of the communities we serve. Strategic program development allows us to ensure the best possible outcomes while maintaining fiscal sustainability.
One exciting example of a “new” Hillside service is actually a returning program. Some years ago, Reinvesting in Youth (RIY) supported effective community-based alternatives to detention for Rochester youth. Funding reductions forced us to close the program for a time in 2019, but in 2023 Hillside re-launched Reinvesting in Youth in Syracuse, as part of the NYS Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower) public safety initiative.
The Syracuse iteration of RIY maintained the core principles of the original model. RIY staff work with youth ages 12-17 and their families, when the youth are at risk of or are currently involved in the juvenile justice system.
- A Case Manager connects the youth to positive community resources, including family and other informal supports, while assisting program participants in navigating the judicial system.
- Enrolled youth are connected to a Community Asset Navigator, who helps the youth engage in activities that build and sustain positive relevant community connections.
- Our Family Peer Advocates use personal lived experience to help the entire family develop the supports necessary to navigate the unique challenges they all face. Peer Advocacy is rooted in Hillside’s bedrock philosophy of family-driven care.
RIY’s goal is to support youth in making choices that help them avoid detention, and to remain focused on a positive and constructive future without being forever defined by past unfortunate decisions.
Following the success of this program in Syracuse, Hillside is expanding RIY’s reach with a return to its Rochester roots. This summer, Reinvesting in Youth will resume service to Monroe County youth and families, funded by the Monroe County Department of Human Services. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring this proven program to more young people and families in need.
You can be a part of the success of this program, and Hillside’s mission. Find out more about career opportunities at our agency, or donate today to advance our work and help more youth and families thrive. Thank you for your support!
Maria Cristalli
President & CEO