Solano Probation Department welcomes State Attorney General Rob Bonta to Youth Achievement Center in Vallejo for lively discussion regarding the juvenile justice system

August 19, 2022

SOLANO COUNTY – On Wednesday, August 10, the Solano County Probation Department, in coordination with Supervisor Erin Hannigan and a number of Probation-connected community partners, welcomed State Attorney General Rob Bonta to the Youth Achievement Center (YAC) in Vallejo for a discussion about the programs and services that work to change and better the lives of youth in our community.  

Attorney General (AG) Bonta, as part of a lively discussion, shared his thoughts and priorities about the juvenile justice system, including youth development, and what positive change could look like.  In addition to his presentation, the AG also heard direct from youth participants regarding their concerns, hopes, and recommendations for programming.  Mr. Bonta was clearly impressed with the caliber of questions and recommendations that stemmed from this highly informed group of young people.      

“I am extremely grateful AG Bonta took the time out of his hectic schedule to visit the YAC and see firsthand the amazing work done by Probation staff and their community partners in helping to transform the lives of youth who are under their care and supervision,” said Christopher Hansen, Chief Probation Officer for Solano County.  “There can be no better public safety than a youth who gains the skills and knowledge to become a productive and law-abiding member of our community.” 

Supervisor Erin Hannigan, District 1 Supervisor, joined Probation staff and community partners in welcoming AG Bonta to the YAC, thanking him for his time and addressing these pressing issues.  As part of the discussion, the Supervisor also highlighted the work being done in Solano County to strengthen First 5 programs and ensure equitable access to services for all families.  She reiterated the need to embrace a community-driven approach to service development, including one that starts with supporting whole families with early intervention, prevention, and community-driven strategies. 

Other community partners involved in welcoming the AG to Solano County included leadership from Alternative Restorative Communities – a long-time partner to Probation’s youth programming efforts; Community Alternatives, Five Keys Charter School, Hidden Genius and A Better Way.  Together, the group successfully hosted a vibrant discussion that will that help the department meet the varied needs and goals of young people, including those working hard to put the justice system behind them.  

ABOUT THE YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT CENTER
Opened in 2018 with funding from the Juvenile Justice Crime Prevention Act, the YAC is a one-stop service site for youth under community supervision to attend required and recommended programming that addresses both youth development and changeable factors associated with criminal activity.   Located in both Vallejo and Fairfield, the program is designed to reduce each youth’s likelihood of recidivism and increase the protective factors that help young people grow up healthy.  The program offers an array of classes specifically designed to improve decision-making ability, address substance use issues, support goals around school and employment, and learn lifelong skills that assist youth in making positive choices.  

For more information on any of the Probation Department’s community-based programs, please contact Katie Ward, Social Services Manager, at (707) 784-7587 and [email protected].