Arches

Arches, a collaboration with the NYC Department of Probation, is a transformative mentoring program for young adults on probation that targets New York City’s highest-risk neighborhoods. JCCA’s Arches program is based in the Bronx, 1 of JCCA’s 3 office locations. This program provides structured mentoring for young adults aged 16 to 24 in all 5 burroughs. Arches employs mentors who are “credible messengers,” meaning they have had a personal experience with the juvenile justice system. Two evenings every week, a team of five mentors meets with 20 youth for two hours of structured programming. JCCA’s program offers two six-month cycles, targeting 40 young adults annually.

Interactive Journaling

Arches uses interactive journaling, an evidence-based curriculum, that guides participants through positive change with the ultimate goal to reduce criminal behavior. The curriculum is age-appropriate and employs cognitive behavioral principles.

Credible Messengers

The program’s mentors are recruited from any of the 5 burrows and must have a history with the criminal justice system. As “credible messengers,” the mentors are not only familiar with the unique challenges facing the Arches participants, but are also culturally and appropriately responsive to the participants’ needs. The mentors are trained in interactive journaling and cognitive behavioral principles.

Incentives

The program offers non-monetary incentives to encourage retention. These incentives include fun and educational outings, progress reports with one-on-one positive feedback, self esteem building tactics, and awards’ and graduation ceremonies for all participants who complete the program. 

Other Community Resources

Arches participants have access to a variety of JCCA programs and community based partnerships in the Bronx:

• Substance abuse treatment
• Workforce development services
• Medical and dental health services
• Mental health care
• Homemaker services
• Recreational facilities
• Day care
• Legal services
• Educational services, including GED programs, transfer schools and vocational training
• Domestic violence assistance
• Respite programs
• Emergency assistance