Contra Costa County Office of Education

In collaboration with the Contra Costa County Probation Department, our CCCOE Youth Services Empowerment Program provides educational and career services for juvenile justice-involved youth as well as youths at-risk of involvement. Through our collaborative work with Deputy Probation Officers, Social Workers, Public Defenders, and schools, reentry service providers are able to provide in-custody and/or out-of-custody youths with: 

• Individualized case planning
• Facilitated referrals and warm hand-offs to COE Workforce Youth Services Specialists
• Case Management Services

Case Managers help youths navigate the educational system, advocate for school enrollment, and have access to post high school career development services. 

Services Provided 

Academic Support

• Identification of educational needs and goals
• Identification of barriers to educational success and potential methods for overcoming those
• Advocacy to ensure proper enrollment in school or access to educational services
• Assist in facilitation of enrollment, request for transcripts or records, and State minimum credit eligibility screening

Job Exploration Counseling (Career Awareness and Exploration Activities)

• Provide career and transition assessments to identify interests and goals
• Assist in exploration of strengths, interests, and abilities and how those may lead to a job
• Inform youths of jobs and industries in the local area

Post-Secondary Educational Support

• Help transition from high school to post-secondary education and/or training
• Explore career and post-secondary education options
• Discover post-secondary education resources
• Assist with application and enrollment processes
• Identify financial aid options
• Identify technology needs

Work Readiness Training

• Train youths on soft skills needed for successful employment, interviewing techniques, resume development, and financial literacy
• Provide application assistance
• Teach youths how to search and apply for jobs

Information on Youth Programs and Community Resources

• Provide youths with brochures, flyers, and other applicable information and resources

Self-Advocacy

• Provide guidance to develop skills of self-awareness and goal-setting
• Utilization of available resources and support systems
• Taking a role in IEP, 504, and other person-centered planning processes

Outreach

• Outreach is linked to the mission of reintegration. Methods include home visits, calls, e-mail, and post mail

Empowerment Program Contacts