The rate of girls entering the Juvenile Justice System is increasing. Estimations are that nearly half of the girls in secure detention are African American, 34% are Caucasian and 13% are Hispanic. Often, girls were traumatized or victimized before they became offenders. Consequently, many experience some form of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Therefore, our goal in prevention is to address the risk factors that lead to delinquent behaviors and PTSD in girls as well as empowering them with the skills needed to succeed.

• Child Abuse
• Domestic Abuse
• Sexual Abuse
• Physical Abuse
• Threats of violence or
• Verbal abuse
• Bullying
• Substance Abuse
• Teen pregnancy
• Poor Academic Failure
• Mental Health Needs
• Societal Factors
• Unruly Behavior

Florida Prevention Association is committed to assisting young girls and their parents in understanding risk factors that exists for them and to equip them with protective factors to help them make better choices and reach their full potential. If your organization or community is interested in receiving assistance in this area contact us at (407) 532-5372. We highly encourage community and faith based organizations to get actively involved in this initiative and host a training forum for young ladies accompanied by their parents in your community today. FPA’s statewide consultant for this initiative is Venus Highsmith, who has an extensive background in Juvenile Justice, with a focus on girls’ issues.

If you are interested in this initiative and services, please register and Ms. Highsmith will contact you.