ABOUT CHOICE PROGRAMS
The
Choice Program utilizes a strengths-based approach to provide an array of
services to youth and their families. Choice staff is committed to offering
services that fit the needs of clients, and to promoting empowerment to ensure
long-term success. Caring adult relationships Consistent
daily contact between Choice Fellows and the youth fosters professional and
caring relationship. Daily contact also provides numerous opportunities for
informal counseling, information sharing, mentoring, and role modeling. Fellows
interact daily with each youth, communicating clear messages connected with
high expectations within the context of these supportive relationships. Structured
after-school, weekend, and summer activities provide opportunities for youth to
be involved, learn to take responsibility, and contribute to their community. Identifying
and linking additional social support systems within a family’s community
constitute a fundamental component of The Choice Program model. Connections are made with youth and families
through case management and active involvement in the communities we serve. Choice
relies on rigorous training and regular supervision to ensure that professional
and supportive relationships are established among Fellows, youth, key adult
care givers, and supporters. Choice
Fellows receive a minimum of 65 hours of training. These trainings include such
topics as informal counseling, adolescent development, case management, family
work, educational services, juvenile care, and safety and crisis intervention. The
Maryland Department of Juvenile Services refers youth to The Choice Program who
are in need of intensive support and supervision in the community. The Choice
Program strives to deter further delinquent behavior by linking youth and
families to community resources and involving youth in positive activities.
Community supervision by The Choice Program is often an alternative to costly
residential placement. Youth are given holistic support and opportunities to
succeed in the community to avoid more serious sanctions. The Choice Program
employs Community Service-Learning Fellows to make daily contact with youth and
families, ensure accountability, monitor school attendance, and provide links
to resources and social supports to address any educational, legal, and health
needs. The team
model allows Choice Fellows to provide services 7 days a week, 365 days a year
to any youth who are in need of the most intensive level of community
supervision. In addition to advocating for youth during the school day and
providing after-school and weekend activities for youth, Choice Fellows rotate
their schedules to make evening home visits on a daily basis. This allows
Fellows to build rapport with families, facilitate communication, and address
any needs for additional resources. If needed, Fellows are available 24 hours a
day for crisis intervention As an
initiative of the Choice Program of the The
Choice Jobs Program hires youth ages 14-18 to work in the program's employment
training facility at Throughout
the year, the Choice Jobs Program delivers employment readiness training,
preparing youth for the work force. The Choice Jobs program is currently
seeking partnership with area businesses to place qualified youth in vacant
positions. The program also seeks individuals interested in sharing information
about their vocation/business. Please contact the Choice Jobs Program for
details about our next event. The Choice Jobs program is continually accepting
donations of food vouchers, gift certificates, and other incentives to reward
youth employees.Key Components of the
Choice Model
High
expectations
Meaningful
participation
Building
community, school, and home partnerships
Staff
development and training
INTENSIVE ADVOCACY
THE CHOICE JOBS PROGRAM
Choice
Jobs
How
You Can Help
