NCJ Number
69638
Journal
State Court Journal Volume: 4 Issue: 3 Dated: (Summer 1980) Pages: 15-18
Date Published
1980
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Primary findings of an evaluation of the South Central Youth Shelter Care Program in Indianola, Iowa, are summarized. Conducted by the National Center for State Courts, the study involved onsite visits and surveys.
Abstract
The 2-year study, covering the period 1977 to 1979, determined the needs and effectiveness of the South Central Juvenile Care Center, which serves six counties as a short-term, emergency residential facility for youths. The Center offers a variety of in-house and out-client services, including counseling, education, followup, and psychological services. The evaluation team interviewed project staff and volunteers, law enforcement officers, court personnel, social service personnel, school officials, and project clients. Two evaluation instruments helped ascertain clients' social adjustment and self-concept, as well as gather data on the number of delinquent and status offenses and arrests. Center records and treatment plans provided additional client information. The shelter care program had three goals: to provide a community-based residential facility, to provide short-term and long-term counseling services, and to be effective with its youthful residents. Statistics and all interview responses were positive. Results showed that the Center's program stabilized and improved in organization and services during the second year. The out-client program was expanded, and a majority of youths were able to return home after leaving the Center. Other positive results included self-concept and social adjustment scores for clients in general; the majority had committed fewer offenses in the 6 months after leaving the Center than in the 6 months before entering. Counseling had been successful, and youths rated the staff very highly. The evaluation showed that the Center had met and surpassed its objectives. Notes are provided.