We are excited to add our first Youth Justice Advocate Profile to highlight the incredible individuals, alongside MCYJ, trying to make a lasting impact for youth in Michigan. This month we’re featuring an interview with Deshawn Leeth, the founder and executive director of Under Dawg Nation (UDN) , a nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk youth who lack resources to help prevent violence and disengagement from school. His passion and dedication have led to the creation of inn

By: Jason Smith, Executive Director at Michigan Center for Youth Justice Adolescence is frequently marked by impulsive actions, a propensity for taking risks, and a heightened influence of peers — traits that can sometimes lead to unlawful behavior. However, as young people mature, they typically grow out of such behaviors. This is referred to as " desistance ", the process through which individuals reduce and eventually cease offending. Recognizing the differences between ad

By: Jennifer Peacock, Policy Director at Michigan Center for Youth Justice On Tuesday, May 23, the Michigan Center for Youth Justice partnered with the Walker Institute at Western Michigan University to provide support to the second cohort of Juvenile Justice Fellows in Lansing, Michigan. This year-long program is designed to empower youth and families who have direct or indirect involvement in the juvenile justice system by equipping them with the necessary tools to become a