LA County Department of Youth Development Announces New Resources for Justice-Involved Youth
Aiming to reduce recidivism and ensure the long-term success of justice-involved youth, the Los Angeles County Department of Youth Development (DYD) has joined with youth service providers and LA County partner agencies to launch Reentry Action for Youth (RAY), a comprehensive reintegration program.
To facilitate successful reintegration and transition back to homes and communities, RAY will connect an initial cohort of 320 youth with 32 mentors. The program also offers significant financial support: $200 monthly for participation and up to $6,000+ yearly for expenses such as rent assistance, transportation and tuition. RAY spans five districts across LA County with an estimated program length of one year per participant.
“This holistic approach to uplifting justice-involved youth is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Los Angeles County,” stated DYD Director David J. Carroll. “Eighteen youth service providers, the District Attorney, Public Defender, Alternate Public Defender, Department of Probation, and Youth Commission are working together to make this possible. This exemplifies LA County’s dedication to preventing recidivism by providing young people with the targeted, practical resources they require for success.”
To ensure ample access to RAY, the Department of Probation is working with DYD to facilitate direct referrals of youth to the 18 providers. The program, serving youth aged 12-25, extends vital services to pre- and post-disposition individuals who may have previously lacked access to some services.
To learn more about DYD youth reentry programs, mentorships and partnerships, visit dyd.lacounty.gov/reentry.
About the Department of Youth Development  DYD represents LA County’s first centralized, systemic approach to connecting young people with vital resources and programs. Through innovation and collaboration with youth-serving partners, DYD aims to reduce youth involvement in the justice system and guarantee fair access to developmental services, opportunities, resources, and care-first efforts that demonstrably improve youth well-being and community safety. Learn more at dyd.lacounty.gov.