Oregon Youth Authority

A look back at OYA events and activities for Black History Month - research and learning opportunities, a film screening and discussion, a mobile history museum, cultural meals, and many guest speakers to inspire youth. We are grateful for all our staff and volunteers' hard work in putting these events together. OYA holds these cultural services to show that we are all one body doing this work, to help support Black youth with deepening connection to their culture and help other youth to understand the deep history and resilience that is part of the Black experience. Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations (OIIR) and facility staff held celebrations in several of our facilities including Rogue Valley YCF, Oak Creek YCF, Camp Florence, Camp Riverbend, and MacLaren YCF. Read more on our services year round for African American and Black Youth and more in our InsideOYA post: “I believe that young people can see themselves from a totally different lens. Our history starts from the enslaved perspective. So am focusing on what is the rest of the story. If individuals can get on a different type of mindset, then they can attract and follow a different path.”

In our Youth Voices from the Archives series, what youth want others to know about OYA: “It holds a?lot of opportunities for the youth that are held in here. Many of them are here for short term periods of time some of them are here for long periods of time, but it's an opportunity for them to kind of take some space away from the community. And just really focus on themselves and learn, you know, from many of the different types of choices they made in their past whether it be drug or, you know, offense-related. They are able to learn new skills and apply them while they're here and also while they re-enter back into the communities with positive stuff.”

Mentors plays a transformative role in the lives of OYA youth. Justice-involved youth often face significant challenges, including trauma, instability, and limited positive role models. Research from the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators (CJJA) underscores the importance of structured mentorship in reducing recidivism and supporting long-term success. By fostering trust and consistency, mentors help youth navigate their past experiences and build skills for a better future. Learn more about how they support OYA youth:

DEI has been an OYA Agency Key Initiative since 2019. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are necessary elements to create safer, more just, and thoughtful systems of care, communities, and employment for everyone. In this agency update, we are highlighting our DEI Training: “DEI training is not just about clicking a box; it’s about creating an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.” Read more about our approach:

OYA has a culture of continuous improvement - we are always looking for ways to better support the youth in our care. Read our latest Inside OYA blog post to learn about updates to youth case management. “The biggest change is that we’re finally putting everything all in one place—we’re taking the best practices and feedback from multiple areas and creating a uniform, cohesive process that gives a kind of road map to get youth from commitment all the way through to termination.”

OYA is partnering with Looking Glass Community Services to launch our first-ever psychiatric residential treatment and subacute mental health residential program. “A growing problem we’ve seen over the years is that some youth commit a crime during a mental health crisis,” says Lani Williams. “This program offers a chance to stabilize them and address their mental health needs so they can move forward.” Read more about the emerging program in our InsideOYA post:

The Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) is seeking a highly skilled and dynamic professional to serve as the Human Resources Administrator, a critical leadership role within our organization. In this position, you will act as the Senior Human Resources Policy Advisor to our executive leadership, providing expert guidance on HR policies and workforce management strategies. You will oversee a statewide, comprehensive HR management program tailored to the unique needs of Oregon’s youth corrections system. This role involves developing and implementing strategic HR initiatives, evaluating the effectiveness of our HR services, and ensuring alignment with OYA’s mission and values. With responsibilities spanning labor relations, workforce planning, and policy development, you will play a pivotal role in shaping a positive, inclusive workplace that supports OYA’s commitment to public safety and youth reformation. https://lnkd.in/d7YGqUHf

Make a difference…

DEI Strategic Manager Jennifer Puentes and Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facility Interim Superintendent Kevin Nelson recently graduated from Leadership Oregon. Leadership Oregon is a year-long executive development program from the State of Oregon that is currently in its 35th year. Program participants learn a range of skills and have a number of leadership development opportunities throughout the year. Puentes was selected to deliver the commencement speech, “Leadership is not about perfection but progress. It’s about learning from your mistakes, taking responsibility, and using those lessons to guide others as well as yourself.” Congratulations to Jennifer and Kevin!

The Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to oversee statewide youth correctional facilities as the next Facility Services Assistant Director. This executive role is pivotal in shaping policies, fostering a culture of equity, and leading over 600 staff to create safe, supportive environments where youth can build productive, crime-free lives. We’re looking for someone with: ? Passion for youth-serving systems ? Strong decision-making and communication skills ? Experience in change management ? Integrity, professionalism, and leadership excellence As part of OYA’s Executive Leadership Team, this role is an opportunity to transform lives and strengthen communities. If you’re ready to lead with purpose and make a real impact in juvenile justice, we want to hear from you! Apply now or share with someone who would be a great fit! #Leadership #Hiring #PublicService #JuvenileJustice?