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Smart decarceration of urban Native American youth within Los Angeles County
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Smart decarceration of urban Native American youth within Los Angeles County
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CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 1
Smart Decarceration of Urban Native American Youth within Los Angeles County
(Implementing Your Capstone and Re-Envisioning Your Career)
by
Deborah Villanueva
Capstone Proposal, SOWK 722
Presented to the Faculty of the
Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
in Partial Fulfillment for the Degree
Doctor of Social Work
University of Southern California
Ron Manderscheid, Ph.D, Advisor
May 2020
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 2
EXCUTIVE SUMMARY
In recent years, Los Angeles County has witnessed extraordinary outcomes in minimizing
youth involvement in the Juvenile Justice System through joint collaboration, and efforts by
effective data analysis to better inform policy, practice, and deliverance. According to Bureau of
Justice Statistics, the total number of youth arrests in Los Angeles County dropped from 55,289
in 2005 to 14,544 in 2015 (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2016). Although the decrease of detained
youth is significant, Urban Native American youth continue to disproportionately represent
higher incarceration rates. The significance of incarceration for Urban Native American youth
who are involved with the Juvenile Justice System continue to be a disparity. Hindering their
wellbeing in areas of education, homelessness, substance abuse, trauma, and other negative
consequences. Identifying these negative challenges as well as opportunities, the Rising Spirits
Program is born, in efforts of advancing smart decarceration countywide and support the
reintegration of the Urban Native American youth within their communities.
Although there are several reintegration programs within the Juvenile Justice System, they
lack a component of cultural competence- crucial to the engagement of the Urban Native
American youth, in post-incarceration stablished program within the Juvenile Justice System.
Culturally-centered interventions can improve positive outcomes for the Urban Native American
youth, otherwise being at risk for long‐term involvement within the Juvenile Justice System,
which could contribute to the hindering of their mental health and wellbeing. Other aspects to
consider, revolve around effective reintegration of the Urban Native American youth- in effort to
improve safety within their communities; an increase of education involvement; an increase of
connection to their culture and traditions; a decrease of substance abuse; a decrease of
homelessness; a decrease of transgenerational trauma; as well as reduction of incarceration costs.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 3
The proposed project Rising Spirits Program (RSP) will provide culturally relevant and
culturally responsive reintegration interventions to the incarcerated Urban Native American
youth living in urban areas within Los Angeles County, California. RSP will address the
disparity of incarceration, along with formulating innovative interventions to motivate the Urban
Native American youth to engage in already stablished reintegration programs within the
Juvenile Justice System; with the goal of increasing motivation, decreasing recidivism and
homelessness. Along with the development of recommendation that will promote sustainability.
According to data collected in October 2015 by the Department of Justice, there are roughly
25,000 Urban Native American youth in California, with an incarceration- racial disparity of
2.59 % in comparison to Caucasian youth.
Research indicates that exposure to generational and intergenerational trauma continues to
hinder the Urban Native American youth population as they seek connection in healing,
according to Kevin Berube, author of “The intergenerational trauma of First Nations still runs
deep.” The RSP is committed in supporting this healing process, through the implementation of
culturally-centered activities through its mentoring program.
The Rising Spirits Program’s main focus is the creation and execution of culturally centered
mentorship interventions, that will be provided during and after incarceration to the Urban
Native American youth. RSP programs will give the Urban Native American youth a way to
strengthen cultural identity, by bringing focus to reconnecting Urban Native American youth
holistically to their roots – through ceremonial practices, healing circles, drumming groups,
storytelling, smudging, and other cultural appropriate practices. Licensed case managers will
assist with opportunities to obtain funding to further education and safe housing, professional
skills training and employment assistance.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 4
The Rising Spirits Program is new and innovative in several aspects, as it builds on the
efforts of past and current programs that are in place, but lack in the area of cultural awareness.
The Rising Spirits Program will provide services to incarcerated Urban Native American youth
from the ages of 12 to 18 years of age – with the exception that if the Urban Native American
youth turns 19 years of age while finishing up his or her sentence.
The Rising Spirits Program will form partnerships with the Native American community at large,
as well as key policy makers, community-based organizations, Los Angeles County Department
of Mental Health, the Juvenile Justice System, U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice
Programs, and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in effort to collaborate
in the dissemination of our program.
The Rising Spirits Program will be comprised of several components:
A. A committee of Native American Elders that will serve as mentors, ambassadors, and
liaisons. As mentors- engaging the incarcerated Urban Native American youth; as
ambassadors servicing the Urban Native American community; and as liaisons- guiding
the process between the Urban Native American youth and the Juvenile Justice System
B. Through the New Generation Jail Model- the formation of a Podular (POD) exclusive for
Urban Native American youth in which culturally appropriate interventions will be
introduced to the Urban Native American youth, along with an assigned liaison that
works and supports the Urban Native American youth throughout the justice system -
from entry into the system to post-incarceration services
C. A post-incarceration case management process that will support the Urban Native
American youth for a year after being released from juvenile detention centers
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 5
D. A summer internship sponsored by large corporations that within their communities -
where Urban Native American youth can engage on hands-on skills building, improve
their self-esteem, and gain invaluable work experience
E. The Urban Native American Youth Mentoring Program in which the Urban Native
American youth will support younger generations of youth within their communities via
outreach and community gatherings in effort to prevent their involvement with the
Juvenile Justice System
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, per every 1000-juvenile incarcerated, Urban
Native American youth represent 4.9% of the population within detention centers in Southern
California, but comprise only 20% of the Urban Native American Youth population; a disparity
that needs to be proactively addressed. The Rising Spirits Program will address innovative
approaches in being able to support the existing processes within Governmental agencies to
bring about effective collaborations and efforts in resolving the Urban Native American youth
overrepresentation in the juvenile corrections system by funding culturally-centered programs
that can be integrated within the current post-incarceration services offered to the incarcerated
Urban Native American youth (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2016).
The ultimate goal of the Rising Spirits Program is to bring about new culturally-relevant and
responsive interventions that can effectively be implemented, and bring support to the
reintegration of Urban Native American youth; By healing trauma and making moral injury- an
irreversible damage at times by witnessing acts that transgress with someone’s moral beliefs,
values, and traditions- a thing of the past.
The Rising Spirits Program will service incarcerated Urban Native American youth within
Los Angeles County, but has plans in expanding to other counties within Southern California- to
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 6
name a few: Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County
in the coming years. The Rising Spirits Program will promote a healing pathway in which
younger generations of Urban Native American youth can have a voice within society and the
world they live in.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Smart Decarceration seems to be a foreign concept within the Juvenile Justice System, at
the present moment there is minimum support for juvenile delinquents of diverse ethnic groups,
socio-economic status, and many with mental health challenges under reintegration programs
that lack funding, trained support staff, professional mental health staff, and the lack of culturally
centered programs.
It was interesting to learn about the lack of culturally-centered interventions within
reintegration programs geared towards supporting incarcerated Urban Native American youth
within a large urban setting in Los Angeles County, California. Bringing to light the intractable
problem of not enough culturally appropriate approaches in servicing, and engaging the
incarcerated Urban Native American youth Juvenile Justice System. It is important to note, that
no-one tribe specifically will be focused on- but rather viewing the Urban Native American
youth as a specific population living within Los Angeles County (Smith & Singleton, 2000).
LITERATURE AND PRACTICE REVIEW
Native American youth have experienced centuries of annihilation and unfair policies
inflicted within the Native American people in the United States, to include the relocation, and
boarding schools targeted to this population. It is important to note that this intergenerational
trauma has overwhelming consequences amongst youth, and has detrimental effects in the areas
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 7
of social, spiritual, and economics, which brings about more trauma that compounds to existing
trauma within generations. National statistical data, shows that 64 percent of Native American
youth who live in an urban setting, specify that Urban Native American youth are among the
most susceptible ("Department of The Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs," 2011).
According to the Tribal Law and Policy Institute, State courts are more likely to
incarcerate Native American youth for crimes around drug use, prostitution, truancy, alcohol,
and crime than any other ethnic population (The United States Department of Justice, 2010).
According to an Indian Law and Order Commission report, juvenile detention centers in the
Unites States have a high number of Urban Native American youth ("Law and Order Indian
Commission," 2014). The Urban Native American youth experience Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder at a higher rate than that of the general population. When attempting to find a way to
resolve the issue of over populated juvenile detention centers, incarceration should be the last
resort for Urban Native American youth exposed to trauma and violence (Abram et al., 2004).
When addressing crimes, it can get complicated when crimes are committed by Urban
Native American youth; the reason is the jurisdictions that take place at any given time with
absolute power over Urban Native American youth. The government branches involved can be
Federal, the State and the Tribal government, it all depends on the tribe the Native American
youth belong to (when pertinent); Interesting enough regardless of them residing in a reservation
or in an urban setting. It is important to highlight that offenses of serious matter committed by
Urban Native American youth it is usually handled within the federal level, which it entails a
more severe sentencing ("Tribal Youth in the Juvenile Justice System," 2016).
US Census Bureau statistics estimates that about 4.5 million individuals identify as an
American Indian descent. The statistical estimates show that more than 10% of US 25 million
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 8
youth are of Native American descent; The first step in this process is to improve the collection
of data at the federal, state and county levels ("Facts for Features: American Indian and Alaska
Native Heritage Month," 2016). The juvenile detention centers should improve the account of
Urban Native American youth in efforts of obtaining useful data such as tribal affiliation, charge,
disposition, location of the crime, and post-incarceration placements when applicable. A high
percentage of Urban Native American youth within the Juvenile Justice System face mental
health challenges to include diagnosis that cover a wide spectrum; from Schizophrenia, PTSD,
Depression, Anxiety, Borderline, Conduct Disorder, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Suicide
rates are 5 times the rate of Caucasian youth in the same age group, resulting from higher levels
of risky behaviors (Nation’s Population One-Third Minority, 2006).
Other Urban Native American youth are runaways, who may be prone to sex trafficking,
homelessness, drugs and death in many cases. Many Urban Native American youth join
neighborhood gangs, and become involved in organized crime. Research reveals that a high
percentage of Urban Native American youth ranging from ages 12 to 16 abuse alcohol and
illegal drugs, then in many cases leads to their incarceration (Walsh & Donaldson, 2010).
Contributors to the above-mentioned behaviors are: trauma, domestic violence, abuse,
broken families, families that are also facing substance use themselves, difficulty adjusting to
school, discrimination, low self-esteem, along with the low socio-economic environments that
they live in ("Effects of child abuse and neglect for adult survivors," 2014). Focusing on the
criminalization of crimes committed by Urban Native American youth, which range from drunk
driving, illegal drug use, prostitution, and gang violence to name a few, contribute to an over
population within the Juvenile Justice System (Feld, 1993).
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 9
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the incarceration rate of Urban Native
Americans is 68% higher than the general population ("American Indian and Alaska Natives in
Local Jails," 2017). According to the National Council on Crime and Delinquency, Urban
Native American youth are more likely than Caucasian youth to be referred to face Juvenile
Justice Court, rather than have the legal charges dropped ("Fact Sheet Youth in The Criminal
Justice System," 2006).
Studies also show that discrimination experienced within adolescence age can interfere
when attempting to establish identities within ethnic groups, as the interpretation of being part of
a minority group can hinder establishing identities by highlighting confusion around self-worth
as they internalize what feels and looks like hatred along with disrespect. Experiencing
discrimination may lead to feelings of anger, which in turn may bring about reactions that may
be key to self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse and criminal behavior (Jarvis,
2017).
In California, each year approximately 130,000 youth are released from the Juvenile
Justice System, from which about 110,000 youth go home from detention centers in which they
have stayed in custody for a short period of time. Approximately an additional 20,000 serve
longer sentences in group homes and or probation facilities ("California Juvenile Justice Reentry
Partnership," 2007). Other youth that served longer sentences, served their time within state
youth prisons and returned home after undergoing stressful and disturbing conditions. The
challenge many of these juvenile’s face, is that by the time they complete their sentence and are
released, they have reached the age of 19 and they no longer qualify to receive assistance
through the child care system that could have supported them at a younger age.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 10
California and all its counties, should make a priority investing in innovative approaches
to help youth succeed when they finish serving their sentences and are released from the Juvenile
Justice System. It is interesting to note that there are successful models within the Juvenile
Justice System that cover needs and risk assessments, pre and post release preparation,
appropriate housing, and proactive collaboration with probation officers. Currently the
challenges facing the deliverance of these programs are that they are not being delivered at the
state and county levels within local communities, making it feel like the programs are non-
existent. Additional challenges can be seen within testing of aftercare models, specially within
youth offenders that face mental health disorders. It is important to note that post-incarceration
services should not be an afterthought, but rather a present item of importance in assuring a
smooth transition for juveniles within their communities. The California Juvenile Justice Reentry
Partnership has been vocal about the support it will provide to the State of California in creating,
testing and implementing effective reentry juvenile justice services ("California Juvenile Justice
Reentry Partnership," 2007). It is the hope of our communities that new reentry policies and
reforms will support the Urban Native American youth and youth at large in reentering their
communities effectively.
When conversing about the Juvenile Justice System within reservations, it seems that the
lack of programs for pre- and post-incarceration greatly affect the Indian country justice system.
Indian country justice system is seeking tribal freedom to be able to stablish priorities when
addressing the Native American youth delinquency matter. But with the idea that they will
continue to be supported by resources within other community programs and a complete
protection of Federal Civil rights for U.S. citizens (Morales, 2015). It is important to note that
the Federal Court System is lacking a juvenile division, it has no specific juvenile court judges,
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 11
or a probation process, and the Bureau of Prisons has a non-existent juvenile detention program,
and no rehabilitation programs ("Juvenile Delinquents in the Federal Criminal Justice System,"
1997).
The Tribal Law and Order Act was signed by President Barak Obama into law on July
29, 2010 ("Tribal Youth in the Juvenile Justice System," 2016). The Justice officials were made
aware by tribal leaders about the need of policies and financial resources in efforts to assist tribal
safety officials in addressing issues affecting their communities. Justice officials were made
aware of the disproportionate rates of crime and violence within tribal communities, and about
the imperative need to progress communication within governments as to improve access and
deliverance of law enforcement and much needed resources ("Law and Order Indian
Commission," 2014). The law permits tribal courts functioning within Indian country to rise
crime sentencing within native offenders (The United States Department of Justice, 2010). The
purposes of the Tribal Law and Order Act are to: specifically state the responsibilities of the
federal, state, tribal, and local governments when it refers to crimes in Indian Country; the
increase of communication and collaboration among federal, state, tribal, and local law
enforcement; help empower tribal governmental officials with resources, authority, and support
to continue to provide safety to their communities within Indian Country; to reduce the
occurrences of criminal behaviors and to decrease domestic violence and sexual abuse ("Law and
Order Indian Commission," 2014). The prevention of human and drug trafficking, as to reduce
sex trafficking and drug addiction in Indian Country; it is also important to increase the
collection of criminal data as well as relating criminal information within federal, state, tribal,
and local officials which will facilitate the investigation and response to the crimes committed in
Indian Country ("Law and Order Indian Commission," 2014). All the above recommendations
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 12
were intended to protect the Native American rights as U.S citizens in order to promote safety
and decrease violence and criminal actions within Indian Country.
Tribes participating in the updated sentencing process are Cherokee Nation from
Oklahoma, Assiniboine Tribes in the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in Montana, Tribes of the
Umatilla Reservation in Oregon, Eastern Cherokee Indians from North Carolina, Salt River
Maricopa Indian Community in Arizona, the Tulalip Tribes in Washington, the Hopi Tribe in
Arizona, Muscogee Nation in Oklahoma (Public Safety and Justice Spending and Unmet Needs
in Indian Country, 2010).
Under Section 504 of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 an
amendment was done under the Tribal Youth Program, which focus is allowing more autonomy
to tribes in supporting Native American youth offenders through the process of rehabilitation and
reintegration within their tribes ("Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act," 1974). It is
important to note that, this law is only pertinent to Native American youth living within Indian
Country, and it doesn’t apply within Urban settings (Cong. Rec., 2010).
The Division of Juvenile Justice Unit & the Juvenile Justice Task Force through the Law
Office of the LA County Public Defender, assigns an attorney and a clinical social worker to
assist the youth within the Juvenile Justice System in advocating for the youth, and proactively
navigating the justice system so that the youth feel more capable of being able to function within
the agency while completing their sentence. The Social worker will support the youth in making
sure that all or most of all their needs are met by working together with Juvenile Justice officials.
The social worker is imperative within this communication process, as a mediator between the
youth, the justice system, and the courts. The social worker assists in decreasing mental health
symptoms as the complex legal process can be overwhelming, stressful and traumatic for the
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 13
youth (The Law Office of The Los Angeles County Public Defender, n.d.). Children and young
adults are considered vulnerable and it is important to provide as much support as possible to see
positive results of growth and reintegration.
Unfortunately, neither the Tribal Law and Order Act nor the program through the Law
Office of the LA County Public Defender address the lack of post-incarceration culturally-
centered services needed for reintegration of Urban Native American youth within an urban
community. This piece is imperative when attempting to collaborate with incarcerated Urban
Native American youth, in efforts of reintegration- as they feel the lack of connection when that
culturally-centered piece is missing. This branches from not being able to fully grasp how these
services will benefit them, since they are geared towards non-Urban Native American youth.
Urban Native American youth come from a long history of generational trauma. When admitted
to the Juvenile Justice System the sense of prosecution compounds to the existing trauma,
causing more harm to the Urban Native American youth. Urban Native American youth feel
missed, as the lack of cultural connection within existing reintegration services make it difficult
for the Urban Native American youth to fully reintegrate within their communities. Some Urban
Native American youth may present with existing mental health disorders, and unfortunately no
arrangements can be made with community agencies pre-released, causing a gap in services that
surely affect their reintegration process.
Some may argue that there are valid reasons for attempting to reestablish full rights to
Juvenile Jurisdiction to the Tribes that seek it. This is due primarily to the lack of culturally-
centered post-incarceration services within the Juvenile Justice System that have to process
crimes committed by Urban Native American youth. Unfortunately, the lack of pre an post-
incarceration services and programs within the State and local justice systems, translates into the
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 14
Urban Native American youth being sentenced for longer periods of time- for similar or same
offenses than their counterparts.
SOCIAL SIGNIFICANCE
Through research and first hand contact I have learned about the powerful effects’ trauma
has for Urban Native American youth and the impact that the participation of traditional elders
has in the rehabilitation process (Conversations with Native Americans about Mental Health
Needs and Community Strengths, 2009).
This is socially significant to the Native American community, as they draw from their
culture and traditions- to navigate daily life and process transgenerational trauma.
They find their strength within the wisdom of the Four Laws of Change unifying
Medicine Wheel information / A quadrant divided into Environment (daily living, balance),
Spirituality (Mother Earth, Creator), Community (family, tribe, nation), and Self (thoughts,
values and passions) ("Medicine Ways: Traditional Healers and Healing," 2000). Which serves
in finding balance in their life and being able to reintegrate into their community once again and
in the future serve as mentors for other Urban Native American youth that might be experiencing
similar challenges in their lives ("Medicine Ways: Traditional Healers and Healing," 2000).
When the Urban Native American youth reenter their communities, they required a large
support system that will assist them in being successful as to be able to participate in immediate
necessities such as access to health care, mental health services, enrolling in job skills programs,
school, and the support needed to avoid engaging with gangs and other negative behaviors. In
other words, Urban Native American youth require aftercare support, that in Los Angeles County
we are scarce of.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 15
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK / LOGIC MODEL-THEORY OF CHANGE
It is worth noting, that the logic model assisted in a clearer organizational process of the
conceptual framework for the Rising Spirits Program along with the theory of change. The
inputs, guided the -Activities which brought- Outputs that affected the- Immediate Outcome, the-
Intermediate Outcome and allowed a clearer view of the Long-term Outcomes. Nowadays, as
expressed by many of the Urban Native American youth clients I serve in providing mental
health services within the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health through American
Indian Counseling Center – shared that they would be more open to receiving post-incarceration
“services offered” if they could blend traditional and modern approaches in reaching behavioral
health, mental health and wellness promotion. Several Urban Native American youth clients
shared, being open to participate in healing circles, drumming groups, sweat lodges, and
traditional Native American ceremonies as they seek connections to their roots in finding their
place within the communities that they live in. This process would make them feel more
comfortable in being open to engage in other post-incarceration programs available to them.
Furthermore, all vulnerable populations need and deserve a strong support system to
connect with, in order to set a path for success in being productive citizens, and balanced human
beings. It is also important to note that, no matter what nationality, cultural background a youth
might come from, all children and young adults go through tremendous trauma when entering
the Juvenile Justice System. It is such massive entity that thinking of navigating it and
understanding their rights can seem overwhelming and can cause much mental health distress to
the point of developing high levels of anxiety and depression amongst other mental health
diagnosis.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 16
PROBLEMS OF PRACTICE AND INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS
PROPOSED INNOVATION/ EFFECTS ON THE GRAND CHALLENGE
The Creation of a non-profit organization - Rising Spirits Program (RSP), is an
innovative solution; who’s main focus is the creation and execution of culturally-centered
interventions, along with supportive services post-incarceration. The non-profit will form
partnerships with the Native American community at large, community agencies, Juvenile
Justice System, Office of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Los Angeles County
Department of Mental Health, policy makers and other stakeholders / such as -foundations, and
business corporations which will fund the start-up / non-profit. To mention some of the
foundations: The Jewish Community Foundation, The Bill and Melinda Gates, The Haigh-
Scatena Foundation, The Ford Foundation; corporations / allies such as Amazon, Target,
Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, Apple, and Microsoft that have allocated grants to serve their
community members. The non-profit will have a designated department dedicated to grant
writing to obtain funding from Community Foundations, Community Corporations, Federal,
State and local Counties as well.
There are several reentry programs geared towards youth in general in the United States
within the Juvenile Justice System, and local community agencies that deliver these programs,
but the culturally-centered component is non-existent. Our program is new and innovative and it
builds on the efforts of past and current programs that are currently in place, but that do not meet
the needs of the Urban Native American youth population. The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) is
a culturally relevant and responsive program, which focus is to provide its services to the
incarcerated Urban Native American youth- during and post-incarceration periods. RSP has
several components to it, which will increase motivation within the Urban Native American
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 17
youth- to engage in existing reintegration programs within the Juvenile Justice System. A
Committee of Native American Elders will be in place, to support and mentor incarcerated
Urban Native American youth, as well as- advise the Juvenile Justice System / Juvenile Hall/
Camp, about the importance of certain ceremonies, and to find ways to accommodate and allow
the Urban Native American youth to attend. The formation of a Podular (POD) within the
Juvenile Justice System to which Urban Native American youth will be assigned as soon as they
enter the legal system, and guided by a liaison to ensure the start of a supportive approach for the
Urban Native American youth to feel grounded and guided not only through the justice system,
but through set expectations during their incarceration that would require the Urban Native
American youth to participate during special Native American traditional celebrations, Native
American ceremonial practices, and the learning of their roots through culturally based groups,
guided by the commission of Native American Elders. Licensed Case Managers whom would
have knowledge of culturally-centered approaches and interventions will be assigned to serve the
Urban Native American youth within the POD with all mental health and other concerns. The
Committee of Native American Elders will interact directly with the Juvenile Justice System and
inform them of the need and the restorative benefits that the culturally-centered approach has in
supporting healing, self-esteem, motivation, reintegration, connection with the traditions, and in
the prevention of recidivism within the Urban Native American youth population.
Our post-incarceration approach and supportive services will be explored by Urban
Native American youth with the assistance of the assigned liaison and RSP case managers- three
months prior to release, to map-out an individual plan for each Urban Native American youth
participating in the program- in order to reach their own personal goals of reintegration within
their community. The individualized approach will allow for an assertive plan to be put into
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 18
place several months prior to release, that will incorporate an educational plan, employment
seeking skills, hands on learning through a summer internship arranged within our supporting
stakeholders, employment and safe housing opportunities, mental health and substance abuse
services as needed, and a direct warm handoff connection prior to release with a community
agency (s) that will further support the Urban Native American youth once released. The
assigned Licensed Case Managers will also work directly with community agencies in the
preparation for post-incarceration support for the Urban Native American youth, and their
families; allowing effective support as the families prepare to receive the youth back into their
homes. The collaboration with probation officers will also be imperative, therefore the POD
liaison, the program supervisors, and the clinical case managers will be in close communication
with probation officers to support the process for a smooth reintegration for the Urban Native
American youth.
VIEWS OF KEY STAKEHOLDERS
Our financial supporters / stakeholders of large corporations within our communities will
be involved in the process of creation of the programs- as much as they would want to; as allies
it is important to have their impute and participation, as it creates a greater sense of collaboration
and commitment for the program to flourish in helping the communities they serve. Our allies
will also provide a summer internship opportunity within their corporation for the Urban Native
American youth to be able to obtain a hands-on learning experience, and be able to include their
summer internship within their resume for future employment opportunities. It will be up to the
corporation’s discretion, but encouraged to possibly offer the Urban Native American
participants (age permitting) a permanent position within their local stores.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 19
The formation of the commission of Native American Elders will be explored in depth
with local Native American agencies within Los Angeles County, California to determine the
steps to follow in order to stablish guidelines and best practices that will serve in order to raise
awareness of the benefits of connecting the Urban Native American youth to their native roots
and traditional customs. The Native American Elders will provide restorative support to the
Urban Native American youth through stories of their ancestors, traditional customs that the
Urban Native American youth can relate to and be proud of- to increase pride and self-esteem.
One of the main roles of the Committee of the Native American Elders will be to inform
the Juvenile Justice System of the importance their role plays in the healing and proactive
reintegration of the Urban Native American youth into their communities. The Committee of the
Native American Elders will accomplish that, by holding monthly meetings with pertinent
figures within the Juvenile Justice System- to inform of the progress, but also to obtain the
support of the department to continue promoting Smart Decarceration of Urban Native American
youth within the Juvenile Justice System. The Committee of Native American Elders and
management of the Rising Spirits Program will meet biweekly, to talk about the approaches that
have worked, the ones that need improvement and possibly approaches that need to be
eliminated in order to continue serving the Urban Native American youth with the outmost
respect in their reintegration process, with dignity and considerations that affect the wellbeing of
the Urban Native American youth.
The Rising Spirits Program is committed to the ongoing support of staff, by providing
opportunities around culturally-centered trainings and approaches to maintain a high level of
knowledge, and being able to provide solid culturally-centered interventions- to the Urban
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 20
Native American youth. This will help bridge the gap in blending traditional and modern best-
practices, across the spectrum of behavioral health and wellness promotion
EVIDENCE AND CURRENT CONTEXT FOR PROPOSED INNOVATION
The motivation in creating culturally- centered interventions for incarcerated Urban Native
American youth, is born from research done around the lack of culturally-centered programs that
facilitate the effective reintegration of Urban Native American youth within their communities.
Numerous characteristics are exclusive to the Urban Native American community. In Los
Angeles County, the Urban Native American community is culturally diverse with representation
from over 100 tribes (Nation’s Population One-Third Minority, 2006). Los Angeles County is
also home to local tribes, such as: Tongva- Gabrielino and the Fernandinho, who reside
throughout the county. Because of their wide dispersion they are often overlooked for
meaningful and well needed services. This is the case when speaking about incarcerated Urban
Native American youth, and the services of reintegration available to them. The innovation
solution is the creation of culturally-centered interventions, that will deliver innovative, holistic,
and grassroots programing to the incarcerated Urban Native American youth- within the Juvenile
Justice System.
Working with policy makers at state and county levels, informing them of the innovative
projects and advocating for changes in policy that address post-incarceration services for Urban
Native American youth, will be key in obtaining legal support and governmental financial
funding.
Working with Urban Native American community members in facilitating their
involvement in county and state level decision-making processes, and to identify opportunities to
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 21
build, develop, and obtain funding for programs that stem directly from needs identified within
the Rising Spirits Program.
COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF OTHER OPPORTUNITIES FOR INNOVATION
The Rising Spirits Program will seek opportunities to collaborate with other community
agencies, governmental entities, corporations, foundations, and policy makers- who have interest
in furthering their knowledge and willingness to support the incarcerated Urban Native American
youth. In creating opportunities for innovation to support this underserved population, and
adding new perspectives to culturally-centered components in future program development.
The Rising Spirits Program has taken steps to further collaborate with community
agencies such as United American Indian Involvement (UAII) which focus is to promote mental
health and physical health by providing pertinent human services to Native Americans living
within Los Angeles County. With Southern California Indian Center, serving the Native
American communities in the counties of Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside; Providing
programs related to employment, education, mental health and human services. With the Bureau
of Indian Affairs, which keeps a large recollection of registered and recognized tribes which may
legally receive services from the United States Federal Government. With the Jewish
Community Foundation which strives in serving the community in need, by donating money that
can be utilized in human service programs that can be delivered within their communities. With
the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, who provide grants to support the improvement of the
quality of life of underserved individuals and their communities. With the Haigh-Scatena
Foundation, who provides grants in support of programs which promote the empowerment of
youth within our communities. With the Ford Foundation, which promotes and supports
leadership, and innovative programs that address social justice and human services. With the
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 22
Board of State and Community Corrections, who provides support to juvenile criminal justice
systems. With the State Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention,
which focus is policies that affect juvenile justice system. With the Chief Probation Officers of
California, which focus is in supporting communities through advocacy, leadership, and training.
With the Los Angeles County Probation, who supports high risk juveniles in continued
education, leadership and reintegration services. With the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office for
Reentry (Mayor Garcetti’s Office), who supports reentry programs within communities in Los
Angeles County. And with the Reentry Coordinators, which main focus is to assist juveniles with
reintegration community-based services.
In the near future the Rising Spirits Program will develop collaborative relations with the
National Institute of Justice, which focus is social science in crime prevention within the justice
system. With the Los Angeles Superior Court, in providing support through the Juvenile
Division in the development and implementation of pre and post reintegration programs. With
the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, providing alternative programs other than
incarceration for juveniles. With the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, which focus is to reduce
recidivism by providing programs to juveniles which main focus is to support leadership,
advocacy, and human services. And with the Women of Substance & Men of Honor, which
mission is to support youth in the reentry process by providing leadership programs.
It is interesting to note that in working with these entities, there will be other
opportunities to expand our efforts- in ending Urban Native American youth homelessness;
increasing educational supports for post-incarceration Urban Native American youth, that will
focus on strengths for positive outcomes. The Rising Spirits Program will navigate all
professional relationships with diplomacy and assertiveness, as it recognizes the wide range of
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 23
generational differences, and the diversity within partners that the agency will have to work with
in order to gain respect, trust and willingness to work towards the same goal of bringing to
fruition culturally-centered programs to support Incarcerated and post-incarcerated Urban Native
American youth, that reside within Los Angeles County.
Furthermore, Urban Native American youth as a collective- either living in reservations
or in urban settings have been victims of many forms of violence. Witnessing crimes done to
others, crimes committed to them personally, to their families and to include generational
trauma, has continued to affect many areas of their lives, to include hindering them
developmentally, emotionally, and psychologically. Incarcerated Urban Native American youth
are in need of support within the Juvenile Justice System. The lack of culturally- centered
programs makes it almost impossible for the Urban Native American youth to fully reintegrate
within their communities. Currently, services offered lack the cultural component that may
strengthen their pride of belonging, adhering to customs that can strengthen their ability to make
sense of experiences that have caused pain and trauma.
HOW INNOVATION LINKS TO PROPOSED LOGIC MODEL AND THEORY OF
CHANGE
The logic model and theory of change have guided the process for the appropriate
assessment in efforts to understand the needs of the incarcerated Urban Native American youth
when attempting reintegration within their communities. This effort has facilitated a clear
direction for the development of culturally-centered interventions within the Rising Spirits
Program. Dr. Jami Bartgis, the lead researcher at American Indian and Alaska Native Mental
Health Research -Centers for American Indian and Alaska Native Health Colorado School of
Public Health/University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus explains about the healing
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 24
power that traditional practices bring into evidenced based practices when treating and engaging
American Indian and Alaskan Native youth around behavioral, physical and mental health.
Addressing concerns around suicide, substance use, and criminal behaviors. Dr Bartgis explains
that Native communities in Indian Country have learned to process these problems with cultural
practices as part of a healing process. In her research she has found that a lack of culturally-
centered interventions creates a deficit and discourages Urban Native American youth from
seeking treatment, and underutilizing services available to them, as they feel a disconnect.
TKay Estes is a coordinator from the Pascua Yaqui Tribe, she shares that Urban Native
American youth and children have positive reactions to cultural activities and in her experience
it’s an effective approach to healing. Urban Native American youth are more receptive when the
culturally-centered approaches are in place. In the near future our agency Rising Spirits Program
will consider equine and other outdoor activities. Expanding within innovative ways, in effort to
embrace various cultural practices, for Urban Native American youth to be able to express and
process trauma.
PROJECT STRUCTURE AND METHODOLOGY
DESCRIPTION OF CAPSTONE DELIVERABLE / ARTIFACT
The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) has several components to it, but the focus of the
prototype is the creation of the Rising Spirits Program Policy and Procedure Mentoring Manual
(Appendix J). The Mentoring manual provides an overview of program development;
organizational background and development; program policies that define change strategy; and
intervention/ program design procedures. A program manual made sense for my project, due to
one of the components of the program relates to hiring- Native American Elders as
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 25
mentors/ambassadors to support the incarcerated Urban Native American youth; and having
clear policies and procedures to be followed by all RSP staff, Mentor Native American Elders,
and Urban Native American youth participants is crucial in the implementation and success of
this component of the program.
COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS
At the present moment, there is minimal support for youth of diverse ethnic groups
involved in Juvenile Justice System, experiencing challenges in the areas of socio-economic
status, mental health, as well as lack of access to reintegration programs that have adequately,
trained support staff, professional mental health staff, and culturally centered programs.
There is no culturally-centered program within Los Angeles County that serves incarcerated
Urban Native American youth. There is a lack of culturally appropriate approaches in existing
reintegration programs within the Juvenile Justice System. The fact that there are no community
programs geared to support incarcerated Urban Native American youth and their families, makes
their reintegration so much more challenging. The Rising Spirits Program offers an innovative
solution by providing culturally-centered interventions that will allow the Urban Native
American youth to reconnect with their culture, traditions, values, ceremonial practices, healing
circles, drumming groups, storytelling, smudging, and other cultural appropriate practices; that
will support bridge the gap in engaging in traditional and modern best-practices within
behavioral health and wellness. The Rising Spirits Program is committed in supporting the Urban
Native American youth in strengthening their identities, by connecting them to cultural and
traditional knowledge- with intent in giving Urban Native American purpose and pride. Existing
reintegration programs offered by the Juvenile Justice System and other community agencies are
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 26
different- in the sense that they lack in the area of cultural awareness a key component for the
success of the reintegration of Urban Native American youth. Their programs are similar around
providing linkages to necessary resources in efforts to reintegrate within their communities.
PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION METHODS
Through the exploration phase utilizing the EPIS model (see Appendix B) we can
learn how- The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) will consider the emergent or existing mental
health needs of the Urban Native American youth, their family, community, and work to identify
the best way to utilize the RSP to address those needs, and subsequently determine whether the
RSP is effective in addressing the lack of engagement and enrollment in the post-incarceration
services offered by the Juvenile Justice System. In addition, consideration will be given to
changes that might need to be implemented- at the organization, program, and individual level.
Some outer factors will revolve around social issues that may arise when attempting to engage
Urban Native American youth within the RSP, due to their history of engagement with
governmental agencies and historical policies which have hindered their communities in the past
(Conversations with Native Americans about Mental Health Needs and Community Strengths,
2009, para. 9). Political issues may be present, when determining jurisdiction of what post-
incarceration programs the Urban Native American youth can engage in- it may depend on
several factors involving policies related to- off the reservations and into urban settings rules and
regulations (Indian Health Services, 2017, para. 6). Cultural factors around engagement and
ways in which cultural identification may bring about barriers in facilitating access to services
provided by RSP (Del Vecchio, 2015, para. 8). Some inner factors, such as readiness for change
can be an important factor to explore when addressing post-incarceration and mental health
services for Urban Native American youth. “Native youth have expressed not trusting any
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 27
programs that are funded by governmental agencies,” says Dr. Jamie Bartgis, President and
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Fire Associates in Sand Springs, OK, who works closely
with Native American youth (Bartgis, 2015, para. 5). Social and cultural norms around violence,
drug use, and other criminal activity can also be barriers within the Native youth population– due
to norms that have highly influenced how Urban Native American youth perceive criminal
activity and the tolerance to these, learned in childhood (Chouinard & Cousins, 2007, para. 4).
Through the preparation phase- In speaking with the Native American Elders belonging to the
Tongva tribe here in Los Angeles County, they have shared that the social, political, and cultural
barriers can be addressed by engaging the Urban Native American youth with Native American
Elders- ambassadors through the RSP, due to their well-rounded knowledge of how to navigate
all the above mentioned systems and the rapport building that will take place between the Urban
Native American youth and Native American Elders. The Rising Spirits Program will mobilize
their culturally trained licensed case managers when engaging the Urban Native American youth,
providing psychoeducation utilizing key cultural-centered elements in addressing social, cultural
norms, and readiness for change. The Rising Spirits Program is committed to engaging the
Urban Native American youth, and their families, through assessment in finding areas in which
they need support as they reintegrate within their communities. The Rising Spirits Program will
utilize all gathered information, to support the future development of culturally-centered
interventions, and to facilitate use of the RSP in the next two phases (Implementation and
Sustainment) and consideration of how best to develop and implement the RSP as expected, and
be supported, and rewarded within the organization. Guidelines will be fully developed to
ensure the stakeholders are included in all needed aspects of the preparation phase. The Rising
Spirits Program will explore all funding options available, due to the limited funding within the
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 28
juvenile justice system. The Rising Spirits Program will have a keen focus on intervention
development within this phase, an in-leadership development to support the implementation and
sustainment phase and in ensuring culturally-centered interventions, that are currently lacking
within the Juvenile Justice System (Conducting Research and Evaluation in Native
Communities, 2017, para. 8). In addressing inner factors- the Rising Spirits Program will utilize
this time in planning the structure of its program and interventions, and will further determine its
priorities when servicing the Urban Native American youth. It will also, set realistic short term-
as well as long term goals, and a shared vision for the agency, the program, the employees,
contractors, investors, Urban Native American youth, and their families. Through the
implementation phase- the Rising Spirits Program is committed to the involvement of all key
stakeholders, to include the Urban Native American youth, their families, and communities in
efforts of a successful and sustainable implementation of the program. The engagement of all
involved during the exploration and preparation phase, must translate into the implementation
phase to ensure that the program and its’ findings are communicated effectively, to ensure the
success of the RSP when implemented within the Juvenile Justice System. If the implementation
of the RSP is successful, it may increase commitment from all stakeholders in promoting the
Rising Spirits Program. Through the sustainment phase, the Rising Spirits Program is deep-
rooted in the organization, to include stable funding and ongoing monitoring and quality
assurance processes within the organization and at an individual level. The Rising Spirits
Program is focused in obtaining stable funding- from foundations, federal grants, state grants,
and Los Angeles County grants; some possible barriers can be the limitations that these
stakeholders may present in order to fund the RSP, and the negative impact it would have in
servicing the incarcerated Urban Native American youth. Federal government funding, and
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 29
partnerships with entities to address mental health, can be complicated – due to regulating
systems, in efforts to protect the rights of consumers, and their investment within the providing
programs an or businesses. Strong leadership is imperative in being able to maintain
sustainability, through effective monitoring of processes at the organization and individual level.
Obtaining a level of high sustainability, organizations need to be able to accept, adopt, and
implement changes within their model to keep up with the - fast changing trends, consumer
needs and preferences, communities and future needs (Wales, 2013, para. 5).
FINANCIAL PLANS AND STAGING
The Rising Spirits Program is a non-profit 501©3 organization, which will have the
support of a board of directors, in which the Chief Executive Officer will oversee the
organization’s activities and represent our funders. It will also count with the support of a Native
American advisory board- to advice the program in the implementation of culturally- centered
interventions and in the prevention of irreparable damage to the Native American
community. Our financial supporters will include: private corporations; local and international
foundations; Private donors; and Federal, State and County funding will influence the Rising
Spirits Program financially – to include budget planning for the fiscal years to come.
For initial planning purposes, the Rising Spirits Program revenue strategy is the implementation
of a plan that focuses on increasing utilization of our program and services within prospective
consumers. The Rising Spirits Program will focus, on providing a clear picture of the value their
culturally-centered interventions will bring about to the incarcerated Urban Native American youth, their
families, and the community. In short, The Rising Spirits Program will provide value and incorporate
alignment of strategy, structure, people, and process. Furthermore, The Rising Spirits Program has
identified money sources that will logically fund the program.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 30
The Rising Spirits Program will utilize a budget line-item format (see Appendix G), it
will detail income sources, expenses, benefits, operating expenses, and a surplus/deficit. The
budget will be evaluated regularly, and updates will be made if necessary, at the beginning of the
new fiscal year. The Rising Spirits Program will be in unison with its funder’s fiscal year, to
make financial transitions parallel. The budget will operate on every July 1
st
of each calendar
year.
The Rising Spirits Program has been able to allocate funding from Private company grants,
Foundation grants, and Governmental grants from Los Angeles County Department of Mental
Health for a grand total of $6,000,000.
There will be approximately sixty-three employees; the allocated positions are as follow:
1 Chief Executive Officer, 1 operations director, 1 finance officer, 1 development director, 30
licensed case managers, 2 operational staff, 5 outreach staff, 15 Native professionals, and 2 grant
writers. The total yearly personnel expense, to include employee benefits- for a total of
$5,031,100.
Operating expenses include the lease of an 11,088sqft building to accommodate sixty-
three employees (176sqft/employee x 63= 11,088sqft); for a total yearly lease of $127, 512
($11.50/sqft x 11,088sqft= $127,512). Technology is crucial, includes 40 computers, and
software for a total of $210,000. Professional services – include consultants and contractors for
a total of $232,000. Materials and supplies for culturally-centered activities (to include materials
for equine activities), for a total of $100,000. Travel expenses for a total of $40,000. Insurance
for a total of $60,000. Utilities for a total of $73,680. Marketing for a total of $23,900. Total
yearly operating expenses $867,092.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 31
The total cost projection is approximately $5,898,192 per year, that includes all personnel
expenses and operating expenses. The total revenue for the year is $6,000,000. Total Surplus
$101,808.
PROJECT IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODS
The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) with utilized assessment questionnaire methods (see
Appendix D, E, F) to measure levels of motivation and compliance at the beginning of the
program, during and post-graduation of the program; all thirty days apart. These outcome
measures will serve the RSP in being able to measure the program’s success. It is important to
note that if Urban Native youth are in need of mental health services, a contracted (Juvenile
Justice System) clinical therapist will collect measures – such as General Anxiety Disorder
measure GAD & Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ-9 at the time of assessment. The RSP will
also have program participants complete post-graduation, the program evaluation questionnaire
(see Appendix I), in order to obtain feedback to be able to improve the overall program. The
RSP is adaptable, and a living breathing program. The Rising Spirits Program will also collect a
Metadata analysis worksheet (see Appendix K) at the initial intake. This is crucial, due to only
being able to collect this data once- in efforts to support our data analysis. The Metadata sheet
inquires about self-identification: Gender representation, age, tribe affiliation or self-
identification. Mental heath background: Mental health support status, substance abuse.
Personal life style: Housing previous to incarceration, previously incarcerated, and previous
participation in the RSP Program.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN
The Rising Spirits Program engages with all stakeholders, from the Native American
Advisory board, which includes Native American Tribal Elders, Urban Native American
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 32
community members, Urban Native American youth that have graduated from the RSP, the RSP
board of directors, our funders, collaborative governmental agencies, and policy makers that
have a key interest in supporting the Urban Native American youth.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES AND PRODUCTS
The Rising Spirits Program engages in many communication strategies, such as: having a
strong presence in social media (Facebook, Insta-Gram, Twitter, LinkedIn, professional Blog,
business website), we are preparing for the launching of monthly News-Letter that will address
important issues to the Urban Native American community in Los Angeles County. We are
currently hosting talks and introducing our agency, to local community mental health agencies
and educating them about the services we provide and the population we currently serve; we
bring along brochures and business cards to leave behind. We are currently working on the We
Rise Together Movement / Campaign- that will be launched this summer 2020. There is plans to
do a Ted Talk in the near future as well (submission has been done).
The Rising Spirits Program will further collaborate with local community mental health
agencies, in order to better serve Urban Native American youth while incarcerated and post-
incarceration. Collaboratively innovate in creating events that bring the Urban Native American
community together, and expand on services provided.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) has mindfully inquire about any possible ethical
concerns with its Advisory board comprised by Native American Tribal Elders, Native American
community members and in the near future- RSP graduates. There is potential to support the
healing, and smooth reintegration of the incarcerated Urban Native American youth, and their
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 33
families. The RSP Advisory board will guide the process in making sure that the RSP program
considers all aspects that embrace culture, traditions, values, and ceremonial requirements.
CONCLUSIONS, ACTIONS AND IMPLICATIONS
SUMMARY OF PROJECT PLANS
The Rising Spirits Program pilot is currently being applied within the Los Angeles
County Department of Mental Health, providing services within the Juvenile Justice System in
Los Angeles County. One of the short-term goals is- upon the yearly review of the success rate
of the program, the decision will be made in 2021 to take the program to Orange County,
Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County, and remaining counties
within Southern California. Possibly transitioning in 2022 to Counties in Northern California.
Additional short-term goals are: organizing Focus Groups in which Urban Native American
youth, and their families can support the enhancement of future services provided by the Rising
Spirits Program. The long-term goal will be to establish the Rising Spirits Program Nationwide
within urban settings, and help lead an initiative to stablish clearer rules around laws that support
additional culturally-centered interventions, programs, and funding for the incarcerated Urban
Native youth.
CURRENT PRACTICE CONTEXT FOR PROJECT CONCLUSIONS
The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) is working arduously in stablishing relationships with
policy makers, governmental agencies, and local community agencies in forming alliances that
will support furthering the RSP in efforts to support and give hope to the incarcerated Urban
Native American youth, and continue to innovate in ways that are culturally appropriate when
serving the Urban Native American community in Los Angeles County.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 34
PROJECT IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND FURTHER ACTION
The Rising Spirits Program (RSP) is aware of the implications of youth incarceration, and
how it might have negative outcomes within general health. The Rising Spirits Program
understands the need for culturally-centered interventions, but also acknowledges that not
everyone is aware or understands the positive impact culturally-centered interventions have in
supporting healing and motivation of Urban Native American youth. The RSP knows that much
psycho-education will need to be provided to prospect stakeholders and the community at large-
to further relate the urgency of these innovative approaches. Therefore, monthly meetings will be
scheduled with current stakeholders and prospect stakeholders to continue to expand their
knowledge of what the RSP services are all about and who and how they benefit the incarcerated
Urban Native American youth and the community at large.
PROJECT LIMITATIONS
Other project limitations that the RSP might face may include: ethical matters, in relation
to cultural and traditional approaches- The RSP will work closely with the Native American
advisory board to address any concerns. Legal matters might arise, to include jurisdiction of
services provided to incarcerated Urban Native American youth- due to tribal affiliation,
although they are living within urban settings. Financial matters will also be of concern,
specifically in the beginning of the RSP stablishing its place within the non-profit community,
therefore it will work closely with funders- in making sure that they are engaged and made part
of decisions that will affect the program and how their interventions and services are being
provided to the incarcerated Urban Native American youth.
In conclusion, the Rising Spirits Program aims to address and present solutions to this
intractable problem in the pursuit of proactive approaches that embrace and expand in creating
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 35
culturally-centered interventions that will motivate incarcerated Urban Native American youth in
engaging, in stablished post-incarceration programs that positively affect their reintegration
within their communities and society at large. Through the Rising Spirits Program, it is my hope
to bring awareness to the lack of culturally-based programs, and the need to create effective
culturally-centered interventions in support of effective post-incarceration engagement of
services by the Urban Native American youth within the Juvenile Justice System; and encourage
advocacy for this forgotten population. Furthermore, continue to harvest fairness, justice and the
protection of human rights within the Juvenile Justice System that needs to keep faithful to
protecting our children, and our communities. It is my vision to anticipate the creation and
participation of organizations to transmit culturally-centered practices in the future.
CAPSTONE PROJECT FINAL PAPER 36
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Abstract (if available)
Abstract
In recent years, Los Angeles County has witnessed extraordinary outcomes in minimizing youth involvement in the Juvenile Justice System through joint collaboration, and efforts by effective data analysis to better inform policy, practice, and deliverance. According to Bureau of Justice Statistics, the total number of youth arrests in Los Angeles County dropped from 55,289 in 2005 to 14,544 in 2015 (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2016). Although the decrease of detained youth is significant, Urban Native American youth continue to disproportionately represent higher incarceration rates. The significance of incarceration for Urban Native American youth who are involved with the Juvenile Justice System continue to be a disparity. Hindering their wellbeing in areas of education, homelessness, substance abuse, trauma, and other negative consequences. Identifying these negative challenges as well as opportunities, the Rising Spirits Program is born, in efforts of advancing smart decarceration countywide and support the reintegration of the Urban Native American youth within their communities. ❧ Although there are several reintegration programs within the Juvenile Justice System, they lack a component of cultural competence—crucial to the engagement of the Urban Native American youth, in post-incarceration established program within the Juvenile Justice System. Culturally-centered interventions can improve positive outcomes for the Urban Native American youth, otherwise being at risk for long‐term involvement within the Juvenile Justice System, which could contribute to the hindering of their mental health and wellbeing. Other aspects to consider, revolve around effective reintegration of the Urban Native American youth- in effort to improve safety within their communities
Linked assets
University of Southern California Dissertations and Theses
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Asset Metadata
Creator
Villanueva, Deborah
(author)
Core Title
Smart decarceration of urban Native American youth within Los Angeles County
School
Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work
Degree
Doctor of Social Work
Degree Program
Social Work
Publication Date
05/13/2020
Defense Date
04/16/2020
Publisher
University of Southern California
(original),
University of Southern California. Libraries
(digital)
Tag
culturally centered interventions,drumming,healing circles,incarcerated Native youth,Los Angeles County Native youth,Native ceremonial practices,Native culture,Native elders mentoring,Native traditions,Native youth,Native youth centered,Native youth incarceration,Native youth reintegration,OAI-PMH Harvest,restorative circles,Rising Spirits Program,Story telling,urban Native youth
Language
English
Contributor
Electronically uploaded by the author
(provenance)
Advisor
Manderscheid, Ron (
committee chair
)
Creator Email
dr.deborahvillanueva@gmail.com,vill074@usc.edu
Permanent Link (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.25549/usctheses-c89-305999
Unique identifier
UC11663935
Identifier
etd-Villanueva-8496.pdf (filename),usctheses-c89-305999 (legacy record id)
Legacy Identifier
etd-Villanueva-8496.pdf
Dmrecord
305999
Document Type
Capstone project
Rights
Villanueva, Deborah
Type
texts
Source
University of Southern California
(contributing entity),
University of Southern California Dissertations and Theses
(collection)
Access Conditions
The author retains rights to his/her dissertation, thesis or other graduate work according to U.S. copyright law. Electronic access is being provided by the USC Libraries in agreement with the a...
Repository Name
University of Southern California Digital Library
Repository Location
USC Digital Library, University of Southern California, University Park Campus MC 2810, 3434 South Grand Avenue, 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, California 90089-2810, USA
Tags
culturally centered interventions
drumming
healing circles
incarcerated Native youth
Los Angeles County Native youth
Native ceremonial practices
Native culture
Native elders mentoring
Native traditions
Native youth
Native youth centered
Native youth incarceration
Native youth reintegration
restorative circles
Rising Spirits Program
urban Native youth