Program areas at HEART Foundation
HEART offered STEPS Steps To Employment. The goal of the program is to serve young adult ages 18 to 24 offenders and high school dropouts in the City of Buffalo and improve the long-term employment prospects. of at-risk and justice-involved youth living in, or returning to high-crime, high-poverty communities in Buffalo, NY. STEPS provides an opportunity to develop marketable employment skills, earn certifications in recognized certificate programs, and receive practical on the job training. STEPS prepares program participants for success in the labor market by providing comprehensive, individualized case management services linked to workforce development and educational interventions, supports, and training programs. Participants received intensive case management including skill assessments, abilities and aptitude, the development of an individualized service plan, goal setting for educational gains, career planning and identification of barriers preventing youth from advancement. HEART provided services to 161 young adults.
Crossroads is an alternative to incarceration program implemented in conjunction with Buffalo City Court. The programs goal is to enhance the ability to function effectively in the community and reduce the risk of committing additional crimes by implementing ethical and best practice models of treatment. An independent study, published in April 2013 and funded by the Department of Justice, found that HEARTs Crossroads program had a 7 higher success rate and a 6 lower failure rate when compared to other programs. In 2013, over 750 court involved youth participated in the program. The average recivdivism rate for particpants over the last three years is just under 9.
HEART provides culturally sensitive wraparound services in collaboration with the Erie County Department of Mental Health and Family Voices Network. In partnership with Care Coordination and HEART staff, the child, his or her family, and members of their support system work collaboratively to identify strengths, needs and goals. HEART develops, facilitates and continually evaluates a comprehensive plan of services and resources. The program served over 140 at risk youth and families.