How the Program Works

Sonoma Valley Youth and Family Services offers programs that provide an alternative to the juvenile justice system and to school suspension by providing leadership and interpersonal growth tools.

When a youth is cited by law enforcement or referred by an SVUSD administrator or counselor, the bilingual case manager will reach out to the youth and their guardian to set a meeting. The meeting creates an opportunity for the case manager to have a greater understanding of the circumstances leading to the referral and other factors affecting the youth and their family. With these factors in mind and the consent of the youth and guardian, the case manager builds an accountability contract. The program is voluntary. Families can decide not to participate and have the citation go directly to the County for normal processing or, if referred by SVUSD, participate in the disciplinary process at the school site.

The Accountability Contract

The accountability contract is entered into between the youth and SVYFS with the parent/guardian’s consent and approval. SVYFS staff work to tailor each contract to meet the youth’s challenges, interests, and needs, as well as the family’s. That being said, the items listed below are required in the majority of the contracts. The SVYFS program is not an academic program. The staff works to support the students through materials and provide support as needed.

 Compass Thrive Program: An online program designed and adapted for SVYFS by Suzanne Van Stralen, Ph.D., and Martin Hall, Ph.D., to help youth successfully create a values-based positive future. The program guides youth in the self development of a personal thriving plan. The plan includes actionable vision, attainable goals, and steps to get there.

Epoch Education Implicit Bias Module: An online class created by Dr. Nancy Dome that teaches students about implicit bias, how to recognize it in themselves and others, and how to interrupt it and repair it.

Community Service: Community service at SVYFS is centered on the youth’s interests and works to build connections and bridges to opportunities in Sonoma. We work with community agencies to build belonging for our youth. Our community partners include Sonoma Ecology Center, Teen Services, Sonoma Community Center, Vintage House, Pets Life Line, and more. SVYFS staff works to individualize each community service opportunity to meet the student’s interests and family’s needs.

Sonoma Challenge Ropes Course: Each student is given the opportunity to participate in the Challenge Sonoma Adventure Ropes Course with activities focused on problem-solving, communication, conflict resolution, and team building that result in students having a greater sense of self-esteem, self-confidence, and the value of inclusion.

Other Resources: The case manager and staff help families find other needed resources including mental health supports, tutoring, camps, and support groups. We also help students explore personal or career interests.

Leadership Training with Challenge Sonoma Adventure Ropes Course

A program offered to our youth that helps them develop leadership skills while providing community service to diverse populations. You will learn to lead participants through a sequence of activities composed of logs, platforms, and ropes, offering all ages both physical and mental challenges.