IDJJ’s Deputy Director of Programs, Rob Vickery, has been selected to represent the Department in a collaboration with Cook County Probation and the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services. This collaboration is one of six groups that has been selected by Georgetown University’s Center for Juvenile Justice Reform to participate in a multi-system Collaboration, Training, and Technical Assistance Program (MSC-TTA). The MSC-TTA will focus on multi-system collaboration and best practices for youth who are dually involved in both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Deputy Director Vickery will help provide other jurisdictions with technical assistance and support. IDJJ’s Aftercare Placement Resource Team will assist in technical assistance opportunities as they frequently collaborate with the Department of Child and Family Services. The project is funded by The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Preventions.
Governor and Director Pay Tribute to IDJJ Fallen Heroes and Recognizes Exemplary Staff
IDJJ's Chief of Mental Health, Dr. Jennifer Jaworski, was recognized by the Council of Juvenile Correctional Administrators ("CJCA") Board of Directors for her work and dedicated service as Chair of the CJCA's Mental Health Committee. The mental health committee is being elevated to an official standing committee of the Board. In a letter to members dated August 8, 2017, CJCA Executive Director Mike Dempsey says of Dr. Jaworski:
" It is because of her commitment and dedication to these issues and to this committee, that their work is being elevated in order to better impact behavior health issues on a national level for all youth and their families who are involved in the juvenile justice system."
Dr. Jaworski served on the team with mental health practitioners from across the country discussing behavioral health issues and challenges that are common amongst the states. According the the CJCA's website, the committee has also contributed to the forumulation of position papers and best practices, webinars, and trainings on behavioral health issues. "The [committee's] dedication and commitment to the issue has made a difference in heightening awareness and in elevating the issues of behavioral health within the juvenile justice system." Dr. Jaworski will continue to work closely with CJCA's Director while serving on the new Behavioral Health standing committee as Assistant Chair.
In May, Governor Rauner attended the IDJJ Academy Graduation where he provided brief remarks. After the ceremony, the Governor took photographs with the graduates and staff.