Shaping the Program

After discussions with Juvenile Court Judges, the team saw potential in building on the framework of the existing LEAPP (Linking Early Adolescent Prevention Programs), which began in the early 1990s. This new, expanded program aimed to identify at-risk youth early on and provide essential resources like tutoring, mentoring, and family support—ultimately helping children avoid detention or placement in juvenile facilities by fostering academic success and positive growth within the family unit.

The Exploratory Committee Forms

By spring 2009, an exploratory committee was established, bringing together leaders from the Mayor’s office, local law enforcement, Juvenile Court Judges, Westfield-Washington schools, and representatives from the probation department, faith-based organizations, and the LEAPP program. Soon, the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office, local business representatives, and other community members joined to build the foundation of what would become the Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program.

Learning from Success

The committee examined existing services in Hamilton County, evaluating which could be enhanced or newly created to meet the needs of local youth and families. They also traveled to Oakland County, Michigan, to study a similar program, established in 1953, that had achieved notable success with at-risk youth. These insights helped shape a proactive, community-based model designed to serve Hamilton County effectively.

Community-Driven Leadership and Support

The success of the Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program is fueled by the dedication and commitment of the individuals who serve on our Board of Directors in each community. Across all locations, more than 50 accomplished professionals from diverse careers contribute their expertise, passion, and vision to our mission. Together, these board members work tirelessly to raise nearly $1 million annually, ensuring that we have the resources needed to support youth and families throughout Hamilton County.

Beginning in 2018, we saw a meaningful shift in engagement, with board members, volunteers, and community supporters becoming even more involved in hands-on efforts. This shift enabled us to further expand our reach, engage more community stakeholders, and strengthen the support network available to families and youth. With deeper commitment from board members, we have seen increased participation, new partnerships, and more impactful fundraising initiatives that have elevated our program’s capacity.

In addition to board members, our program relies on the invaluable efforts of hundreds of volunteers who serve as mentors, tutors, and advocates. These dedicated individuals provide crucial one-on-one support, educational guidance, and mentorship to youth across the county, helping them overcome challenges and unlock their potential.

Our growth and ability to serve more youth have been further supported by the Westfield Youth Assistance Program, which generously funded the development of a unified website for all Hamilton County Youth Assistance locations. This new online platform allows families, volunteers, and supporters to connect with resources, stay informed about services, and access information for each community—all in one convenient place.

The dedication of our board members, volunteers, and community partners empowers us to continue making a lasting, positive impact on Hamilton County’s youth and families. Through their collective efforts, we are building a network of support that touches lives and strengthens communities across the county.

Meeting Increased Needs During COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented need for youth support, as families faced new challenges with education, mental health, and financial stability. The Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program responded swiftly, expanding services to meet the increased demand, especially for tutoring. As of 2024, our tutoring services remain at three times the pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the ongoing impact on students’ academic needs. Thanks to the commitment of our board, volunteers, and community partners, we continue to provide vital resources that help youth overcome these challenges and thrive.