County youth services commissions are designated by the county governing body to administer the Partnership Grant Program within each county. They develop, implement and contract for community programs for juveniles, as well as review and monitor new and existing community programs to determine their effectiveness. They are also responsible for planning for youth at-risk of further involvement in the juvenile justice system. The membership consists of family court judges, prosecutors, detention center directors, family court staff, public defenders, agency directors and community members who are interested in the juvenile justice system. Aftercare For the first time, through the JJC, New Jersey provides coordinated, funded aftercare services.
Aftercare services are an integral step in the ladder of rehabilitation.
Follow-up on educational opportunities, work plans and living conditions are monitored and supported by community case managers and parole officers that provide the necessary resources to help youth become productive members of the community. The Commission recognizes that the problems of delinquency require a multi-faceted approach and seeks to develop partnerships with communities as well as agencies and departments within state government. Through the Commissions' Advisory Council, a dialogue has begun about how other agencies and departments in the State can provide assistance and services to troubled youth. For instance, the Department of Labor is currently working with the Commission to identify job opportunities for our youth. The Juvenile Justice Commission is currently undertaking a Detention Reform Project.