Staff Launches Supportive Housing for Troubled Teen Girls

In a significant initiative to support at-risk youth, staff at the West Central Regional Juvenile Center have successfully launched a new residential program for teenage girls facing challenges in their lives. Despite an unsuccessful bid for funding from the Minnesota Legislature in 2024, the team dedicated $200,000 from Clay County and their own volunteer time to create the program known as the Community Living Independent Programming and Skills, or CLIPS.

The CLIPS program aims to provide a structured environment where girls with criminal or high-risk backgrounds can learn essential skills for independent living. The facility, located within the Clay County Family Service Center, has been transformed to resemble a welcoming apartment, complete with a kitchen and living spaces. CLIPS Supervisor Jake Baumgartner expressed satisfaction with the renovations, stating, “Aesthetically, I love it. It’s very welcoming.”

The program specifically targets girls aged 17 and 18 who have experienced instability in their lives, often transitioning in and out of juvenile detention or facing challenges in foster care. James O’Donnell, Superintendent of the West Central Regional Juvenile Center, noted that many participants arrive with “a lot of baggage,” and the program is designed to assist them in overcoming these obstacles. The overarching goal is to prevent these young individuals from entering the adult criminal justice system after turning 18. “The whole goal is to not end up in county jail,” O’Donnell stated.

Innovative Approach to Rehabilitation

Unlike traditional programs, the CLIPS initiative adopts a more flexible approach. Staff members emphasize that youth will not be expelled for missing curfew or facing setbacks such as substance use. While there are consequences for inappropriate behavior, participants are given the chance to learn from their mistakes without starting over. Nicole Williams, a case manager, highlighted the program’s individualized focus, stating, “Here, they have that freedom, but they also have that safety net and structure.”

Participants typically stay in the program for as long as necessary to achieve successful discharge, with durations ranging from four to six months for some, while others may remain for up to a year. The facility is licensed to accommodate a maximum of twelve girls, though staff prefer to maintain an enrollment of around eight to ensure personalized attention.

The program not only provides a safe living environment but also equips participants with crucial life skills. Residents learn to create budgets, plan meals, and manage household chores collaboratively. They are also instructed in job readiness, money management, and navigating public transportation. Girls are encouraged to save 80% of their earnings from jobs, preparing them for financial independence upon graduation from the program.

Holistic Support and Personal Growth

Education remains a priority, with participants working towards obtaining their high school diploma or GED. Group therapy sessions are organized to foster discussions on healthy relationships, emotional management, and making positive choices. Free time and recreational activities, such as biking and attending local sports events, are also integral parts of the program, promoting a balanced experience.

The involvement of Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota adds a therapeutic dimension, with staff available to provide necessary mental health services. This comprehensive support system aims to promote the overall well-being and personal growth of the participants.

The impact of the program is already evident, with staff members receiving updates from graduates as they navigate life beyond the program. “Seeing kids go into the world successfully is the reason staff do the job,” Williams remarked. The CLIPS program represents a vital step in addressing the needs of vulnerable youth, offering them the tools to build a brighter future.