MIAMI - Oct. 4, 2019 - Affirming YOUth Foundation, with generous support from the U.S. Department of Justice - Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) is proud to announce a new initiative supporting victims of gang violence for Miami-Dade youth who reside in the Liberty City community.
OJJDP awarded Affirming YOUth Foundation (AYF) $960,000.00, over three years, for its innovative PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS Initiative (PROJECT Social, Emotional, Enhancement, and Development for Success – Helping, Empowering, and Lifting Society. Affirming YOUth was one of nine recipients in the United States to receive funding.
AYF provides innovative programs and services to young people in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. It operates a resource center to assist youth with developing life and coping skills. The foundation's initiative, PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS, is a comprehensive program that enhances public safety in schools and communities through community-based behavioral health and wellness services to trauma-impacted youth. The program provides mentoring and intensive wraparound services that address environmental factors, family factors, and daily living factors, as well as collaborative community partnerships to provide a continuum of care.
"This grant will allow us to implement comprehensive strategies that youth can use to transform their lives," said Jonathan Spikes, Founder and Executive Director of Affirming YOUth. "We, the community, are coming together to support the youth in developing and maintaining safety."
Organizations working in partnership with Affirming Youth Foundation, Inc., to provide services to this population, include the Miami-Dade Department of Juvenile Services, Florida International University – The Education Effect, Walking One Stop, Neighbors and Neighbors Association, Career Source of South Florida, Urban League of Greater Miami, Acceleration Academies, and Historic Black Police Precinct Courthouse and Museum.
"This is exciting," said Wayne Rawlins, Project Manager for the Miami-Dade County Anti-Violence Initiative. "I'm confident that this initiative will strengthen youth and family services to ensure all youth are healthy, safe, engaged, and supported."
About Affirming YOUth Foundation
Affirming YOUth Foundation's mission is to provide trauma-informed services that meet the educational, emotional, physical, and mental health needs for youth and their families. To learn more about Affirming YOUth, and their programs, vi
www.affirmingyouth.org
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