Innovative New Rochelle Court Program For At-Risk Youth Expands

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The city council voted unanimously to boost a New Rochelle City Court program designed to lift at-risk juveniles out of the legal system with mentoring, career training and counseling.

The “Opportunity Youth Part” program was created last year at the behest of New Rochelle Judge Jared Rice. The new program led by the former New Rochelle City Council member was envisioned as a way for the courts to impact the lives of vulnerable youth between the ages of 16 and 24 years old in ways that are enriching rather than punitive.

Now, the unique court diversion program will get additional funds to reach more kids and young adults in the community. This week, the City Council voted to give an additional $70,000 to allow the program to expand.

“It’s a great example of partnership between government, the courts, not-for-profits, and community volunteers with the goal of achieving positive life outcomes for an at-risk population, while also enhancing the safety of our city as a whole,” New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson said in a statement on social media praising the Opportunity Youth Part initiative.

Opportunity Youth Part organizers say the money will be used to offer intensive, individualized support to participants who might otherwise be just another casualty of the justice system. Expanded resources will include job training, mental health counseling, and one-on-one mentoring.