In a recent government meeting, community leaders and representatives from the Youth Zone discussed the critical services provided to at-risk youth in Rio Blanco County. Jamie Ames, the director of Unizone, highlighted the organization's commitment to juvenile diversion programming, which aims to support young individuals before they become entrenched in the justice system.

Ames noted that Unizone has been operational for 48 years and has significantly expanded its capacity over the past four years, doubling both staff and budget. This growth has been fueled by various funding sources, including grants and community contributions. The organization collaborates closely with local law enforcement and schools to identify youth exhibiting risky behaviors, providing them with assessments and tailored support.

The meeting revealed that Rio Blanco County faces unique challenges, with harassment and violent crimes being the most common charges among youth, contrasting with other regions where substance-related offenses are more prevalent. Ames emphasized the importance of community support in mitigating these issues, stating that limited access to substances in the area has contributed to lower rates of substance-related charges.

Unizone's approach includes offering free therapy and family counseling, as well as educational programs focused on substance use prevention. The organization also employs restorative justice practices to facilitate healing and reintegration for offenders, aiming to reduce recidivism rates. Remarkably, Ames reported a 93% non-recidivism rate among youth who engage with their services, a statistic that underscores the effectiveness of their diversion programs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue enhancing access to services for families in Rio Blanco County, addressing the barriers that often hinder support for at-risk youth. As the community grapples with these challenges, the collaborative efforts of organizations like Unizone play a vital role in fostering a safer and more supportive environment for young people.