The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute is currently accepting applications for the Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program for the years 2025 to 2027. This grant program aims to provide funding for initiatives that offer cost-effective, research-based alternatives to secure detention and out-of-home placements for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The program is designed to reduce the reliance on secure confinement, improve outcomes for children, and ultimately decrease recidivism rates. The grant amounts range from $10,000 to $100,000, with a total grant duration of two years.

The primary purpose of the Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program is to support the development and implementation of community-based alternatives to incarceration. This includes funding for services and programs that focus on evidence-based practices and restorative justice approaches. The program emphasizes the importance of providing youth with the least restrictive means necessary to ensure their safety and the safety of the community while addressing their individual needs. The funding is particularly aimed at rural counties, with a base amount of $75,000 allocated per county, supplemented by additional funds based on population size.

Eligible applicants for this grant include public entities, nonprofit organizations, and nongovernmental organizations that provide services to youth at risk of or involved in the juvenile justice system. To qualify for funding, applicants must prequalify by demonstrating good standing with the Indiana Department of Revenue, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, and the Secretary of State. Non-governmental entities must also have a memorandum of understanding with a referring entity prior to receiving funding. Each grant must be overseen by a local regional Justice Reinvestment Advisory Council or a similar collaborative body that includes juvenile justice stakeholders.

The allowable activities funded by this grant include the development of community alternatives, support for operations and service delivery of these alternatives, and evidence-based or restorative justice projects. Grant recipients are required to report performance measures on a monthly or quarterly basis and submit an aggregate report at the end of the grant cycle. They must also maintain case-level data for research and evaluation purposes, as outlined in the Youth Justice Oversight Committee’s Grant Programs Report.

The application process requires potential grantees to submit detailed proposals that address specific questions related to their programs and intended outcomes. Evaluation criteria will focus on the effectiveness of the proposed services, the ability to meet the needs of youth, and the overall impact on recidivism and positive outcomes. The deadline for submitting applications is November 15, 2024.

For those interested in applying, it is essential to review the specific submission requirements and ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared in advance. Additional information about the grant program, including guidelines and application forms, can be found on the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute's website. This grant opportunity is a valuable resource for organizations looking to make a positive impact on youth involved in the juvenile justice system in Indiana.