NCJ Number
233446
Date Published
May 2010
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This report presents the methodology and findings of an evaluation of the Santa Clara County Probation Department's (California) Enhanced Ranch Program, which serves high-risk, high-need youth with gang affiliations, substance abuse issues, and significant criminal histories, with a focus on helping these youth internalize healthy behaviors.
Abstract
An analysis of the county's implementation of the core elements of the program revealed a high level of integrity and fidelity to the model. In addition, the youth in the enhanced Ranch Program had improved outcomes over their counterparts in the previous Ranch Program regarding behavioral incidents and fights during detention. There were also reduced probation violations and new arrests during and after completion of the program. The new rehabilitative program emphasized real, cognitive behavioral change rather than mere compliance with rules. It featured an open facility with a home-like atmosphere, where the staff acted as counselors rather than guards, the family was an active participant in programming, and the rules were enforced by youth leaders. Evaluators collected a variety of data through site visits, interviews, document review, and focus groups with committed youth. Subjects of the interviews included residents of the ranches; the Chief Probation Officer and Deputy Chief of Santa Clara County; managers, supervisors, and counselors; representatives from the courts, Board of Supervisors, District Attorney's and Public Defender's offices; and individuals representing the community-based organizations that provide services to youth. In addition, an extract of probation data was obtained and analyzed to compare the Enhanced Ranch Program with the former Ranch Program it replaced. 4 tables and 6 figures