Before Just After Bars Inc. became a leader in adult re-entry, our journey began with a deep commitment to our community’s youth. For years, our Youth Assistance Program (YAP) and Delinquent Intervention Program (DIP) served as vital lifelines for young people. These aren't new ideas; they are proven models with a history of impact. Today, these legacy programs serve as the parent pillars of our youth division. We are proud to announce the relaunch of these foundational initiatives, bringing our leadership and decades of experience back to the forefront to serve the next generation.

One of the most impactful elements of our original DIP was our commitment to "Firsthand Knowledge." We didn't just tell inner-city youth about the consequences of the justice system—we showed them. For years, we organized and facilitated bus trips for hundreds of at-risk youths to visit state correctional facilities. By providing these young men and women with a firsthand look at the realities of incarceration, we broke the "glamour" often associated with street life. These visits were paired with intensive debriefing sessions where youth could hear directly from incarcerated individuals about the choices that led them there. Our goal: to disrupt the "Cradle-to-Prison Pipeline" by providing a comprehensive "Reality-Based" curriculum.

At the heart of YAP and DIP is our commitment to restoring powerful peer-to-peer mentorship. We pair youth participants with "Lived Experience Mentors"—adults who have successfully transitioned through similar challenges and can share their journeys and insights. These mentors provide relatable guidance, support, and a positive example, showing young people that a different path is possible. This direct connection empowers youth to make informed decisions and build a brighter future, steering them away from the pitfalls of the justice system.