Youth Leadership Academy
3155 W. Steiner Way
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 935-7099
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The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) is a semi-secured camp facility operated by the Orange County Probation Department. Centrally located within Orange County, the facility opened in July 2006 and consists of two, two-story modular living units that are designed to house up to 64 youth. Each building contains a control center, dayrooms, dining, multi-purpose areas, and an outdoor recreation space. There is a third building that functions as the administration building. The Youth Leadership Academy utilizes evidenced based programs and activities that have been proven effective through research and may include the implementation of elements such as a risk/needs assessment, individual motivators, targeted appropriate interventions, and positive reinforcement. Effective Practices in Community Supervision (EPICS) and Decision Points are used as integrated, cognitive approaches to changing behavior through cognitive restructuring, social skills development, and problem solving.
Comprehensive academic and special education services are provided by Otto Fischer School, which is operated by the Orange County Department of Education. The Department of Education also provides a certified counselor/clinician to provide vocational and employment instruction. On-site medical services are provided by the Orange County Health Care Agency. Mental health services are provided by the Orange County Health Care Agency, through the Clinical Evaluation and Guidance Unit (CEGU) and include crisis, individual, group, and family counseling. Religious programming, reading skill building, educational tutoring, community service and restorative justice opportunities are provided through the use of Volunteers in Probation (VIPs).
YLA has two programs: PRIDE and LEAD. The Progressive Rehabilitation in a Dynamic Environment (PRIDE) Program is a comprehensive program designed for youth who receive extensive local commitments. This program is open to male youth ages 14 to 20 years of age. The program targets youth who would have been formally sentenced to lengthy commitments at the local level, however, to assist with population control at Juvenile Hall the program can also house youth serving shorter sentences. The program includes a behavioral based phase advancement program and allows transitional services with from a partnering agency that incorporates furloughs and family reunification counseling to aid in a smooth transition to the community.
The Leadership Education Through Active Development (LEAD) Program focuses on preparing youth to re-enter and transition back into the community. This program houses older male youth who are 17 – 20 years of age, however, to assist with population control at Juvenile Hall the program can also house younger youth. The LEAD Program encourages our youth to be leaders in the program and in their communities upon release. There are four levels of leadership for youth to achieve in the program ranging from Level 1 to Level 4. Youth will be given more responsibilities as they promote to each level, which may include off-site schooling, employment, furloughs, and field trips.
