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Family Division

Hall of Justice
280 Washington St
Suite 202
Traverse City, MI 49684
Phone: 231/ 922-4640
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Programs and Interventions

ANGER/STRESS MANAGEMENT CLASSES
Youth are referred to this 10 week program who have committed an offense based on assaultive behaviors. It also includes referrals of youth who are struggling with emotional issues , stress, frustration, resentment and self management. The classes take place in the court building after school . Goals of the program include keeping expressions of anger at a manageable and nondestructive level, gaining understanding of the core issues of anger and processing the feelings which can result in a negative outcome. Child & Family Services sponsors this program.

BOXING PROGRAM FOR AT RISK YOUTH
The Juvenile Division works collaboratively with the Director of the Trigger Boxing Program to provide athletic programming for adjudicated boys and girls. The mission of the Program is two fold; to provide an after school program for at risk youth and to provide developing athletes with opportunities to compete in Golden Gloves, Police Athletic League (PAL) and USA Boxing tournaments. Benefits of the Program include; self discipline, becoming physically fit, becoming part of a positive organization, developing structure in life, engaging in a mentorship , finding purpose.

COGNITIVE THERAPY GROUP
Is a unique psychological service designed to provide psychotherapy to adolescents who have committed various offenses. These adolescents generally experience a destructive pattern of behaviors associated with impulsivity, impaired reasoning and judgment skills and possibly, related substance abuse issues. The program takes place at Old Town Psychological Services weekly after school for 15 group sessions.

GIRLS EMPOWERMENT GROUP
This group offers therapy for adolescent girls on probation who need direction and support in their lives. The group takes place at Lakeview Counseling Center. Group goals include learning to: manage & express feelings, develop & maintain healthy relationships, improve self esteem, decrease self-destructive behaviors, healthy ways to manage stress and developing personal goals.

JUVENILE DRUG COURT PROGRAM
This program is designed specifically for juveniles whose alcohol and/or drug use is a contributing factor for illegal behavior. The Program is approximately 7 months long and consists of four phases; Introduction, Commitment, Demonstration and Independence. Participants are required to complete designated goals to advance through the Program. The Drug Court Team is a supportive network designed to assist the youth in achieving a drug and alcohol free life style. Team members include the Judge, Therapeutic Programs Coordinator, Probation Officers, Prosecuting and Defense Attorneys, a School Representative and Treatment Providers. The Program involves a high level of oversight with parental involvement. Youth report weekly to the Court for scheduled Review Hearings in front of the Judge and Team. All participants and parents are present.

MENTORS & TUTORS
The Volunteer Services of the Family Court provides mentors and tutors to assist youth on probation with specific needs identified by their probation officer.

MUSIC - INSTRUMENT GROUP
Lead by Juvenile Probation Officers, the music group provides the opportunity for youth to learn how to play the guitar and drums. This is an ongoing program which takes place after school at a local studio. This program is viewed as fun and constructive in a relaxed environment. Youth come to the realization that music can be a healthy outlet in their lives and an alternative to delinquent behavior. Youth are able to interact with probation Staff in a new light.

NEW VISION SUMMER ACADEMY
Consists of a partnership between community professionals, court staff and court volunteers to provide adjudicated youth with a learning opportunity. The opportunity allows personal growth and development through a series of "mini" educational and hands-on classes. There are 3 sessions which are held at the Court Building during the summer. Each session is a 2 week period. The Academy includes the following classes; healthy life styles, photography, yoga, nutrition, video production, habits of effective teens, financial basics, cooking, art, creative problem solving, meeting with a police officer and more. 

SEWING PROGRAM
A specialized community service work project which takes place at the Volunteer Service Department of the Court. Youth are assigned to work with volunteers. Youth learn to use a sewing machine and create quilts, pillows,and other items. Completed items are given to nonprofit agencies such as nursing homes, shelters and special needs requests in the community. Youth report to Volunteer Services at the Court after school . Youth are given up to 20 hours of work to fulfill.

WEIGHT LIFTING PROGRAM
This Program is directed by Juvenile Division Probation Officers supported by local fitness centers. Court Volunteers also assist with the Program. The Program takes place at a fitness center twice weekly after school. As skills develop and goals are achieved, local competitions are held for the youth involved. This Program is designed to enhance physical wellness, promote mental discipline, improve self concept, and encourage social interaction. Parents and siblings are welcome to join their child in the Program.


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