Lashawntay T. Howard Youth Offender Center

Lashawntay T. Howard Youth Offender Center (LTHYOC) is a nonprofit organization focused on empowering and rehabilitating youth, particularly those involved in or at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. The organization serves communities in Miami-Dade County, specifically targeting neighborhoods such as Liberty City, Brownsville, and Little Haiti.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of LTHYOC is to provide a comprehensive youth development program designed to educate, train, and advocate for youth. The organization aims to empower its participants by offering supportive services that foster personal growth and reduce the likelihood of engagement in delinquency and violent behavior.

Programs and Services

LTHYOC offers a range of programs and services tailored to meet the needs of system-involved youth. These include:

• After-School and Summer Programs: Providing educational enrichment and activities for youth in grades 6 through 12.
• Career Readiness and Mentoring: Supports include job training, career guidance, and mentorship to promote employment readiness.
• Life Skills and Social Services: The center offers courses on life skills, mental health referrals, and support services to address social and emotional development.
• Academic Enrichment: Programs focus on improving academic motivation and achievement.
• Violence Prevention and Trauma Therapy: LTHYOC provides interventions to prevent violence and offers trauma-focused therapy to address underlying issues contributing to behavior.

Impact and Community Engagement

LTHYOC aims to reduce juvenile delinquency and gang activity by creating safe environments and promoting positive relationships. It uses evidence-based practices, such as the Search Institute's developmental relationship framework, to build strong connections between youth and community leaders. The organization also engages in community outreach and organizing to foster a broader impact in reducing violence and promoting positive social norms.

Legal and Administrative Details

LTHYOC operates under the tax identification number 80-0778373. It has been providing its services since 2012, supporting nearly 100 adolescents annually.