Mecklenburg County Allocates Over $2 Million for Juvenile Crime Prevention Programs

Mecklenburg County's Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) is now accepting applications for funding programs that serve at-risk and delinquent youth, or those under juvenile court supervision.

 

For the fiscal year 2026-2027, spanning July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, more than $2 million has been allocated to support these vital initiatives.

 

Sonya L. Harper, director of Mecklenburg County Criminal Justice Services, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "Investing in these programs is an investment in the betterment of families and our communities."

 

The JCPC's mission is to address gaps in youth services by promoting prevention, intervention, treatment, and aftercare strategies that strengthen families and enhance community safety.

 

Historically, the council has funded programs offering mentoring, vocational skill-building, behavioral health support, and community service opportunities.

 

Organizations interested in applying for funding must submit their proposals by February 13. You can review eligibility details and apply for JCPC funding online.

 

Attendance at a pre-bid information session is mandatory for all applicants.

 

Each program must send a representative to at least one of the following sessions to be considered for funding:

 

Mandatory Pre-Bid Information Sessions:

 

• January 28, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

 

• January 28, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Both sessions will be held at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 2nd Floor, Room 267, located at 600 East 4th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.

 

For technical assistance, please contact Daniel Sevigny, JCPC Area Consultant, at 704-603-6833.

 

For administrative inquiries related to this Request for Proposal, reach out to Elizabeth Swann, JCPC Administrative Assistant, at 980-314-1705.

 

In recent years, Mecklenburg County has intensified its efforts to combat juvenile crime.

 

In 2025, the county approved over $2 million to support 13 programs aimed at assisting juvenile offenders. These programs focus on substance abuse treatment, life skills development, restorative opportunities, and mentoring.

 

One such organization, Team Up Connections, has been instrumental in mentoring youth involved in various offenses, including shootings and gang activities. Since its inception in 2019, the organization has served over 500 youths, with less than 10 becoming repeat offenders.

 

Additionally, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) launched the Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment (JADE) team in 2024. This initiative focuses on monitoring and supporting at-risk juvenile offenders through workshops, career coaching, and life skills training.

 

By collaborating with families and providing necessary resources, JADE aims to prevent recidivism and empower youth to make positive life choices.

 

These concerted efforts underscore Mecklenburg County's commitment to juvenile crime prevention and the rehabilitation of at-risk youth. By investing in comprehensive programs and fostering community partnerships, the county strives to create a safer and more supportive environment for its young residents.