The Youth Villages Grant Establishment Amendment Act of 2025 aims to create a new grant program within the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) to support the establishment of neighborhood-based organizations known as Youth Villages. These organizations will provide daily support and mentorship to youth up to age 25 who are either justice-involved or at risk of justice involvement. The bill proposes grants of up to $300,000 to eligible nonprofit organizations to develop these Youth Villages, which will focus on mentorship, skill-building, civic engagement, and community reintegration. The legislation emphasizes building sustainable intergenerational networks and partnerships with local schools, juvenile justice agencies, and community organizations.
The bill also outlines specific requirements for the Youth Villages, including providing daily support services such as academic and career skills training, community service, and life-skills development. It mandates that grantees demonstrate measurable outcomes, such as reductions in recidivism and increases in school attendance and employment. The CFSA will monitor the performance of grantees through periodic reporting and site visits, ensuring accountability and effectiveness in achieving the program's goals. Overall, this legislation seeks to create a comprehensive support system for vulnerable youth in the District of Columbia, drawing on successful models from existing community programs.