An Eastside Kansas City Student Prevention Program

Youth violence is a widespread public health concern that affects children and teens nationwide, including those in Eastside Jackson County. Defined as the intentional use of physical force or power to harm or threaten others, youth violence can take many forms—from bullying and physical fights to more serious acts like assault and homicide. This violence not only causes immediate harm but also contributes to long-term challenges by increasing the risk of trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that impact mental and emotional well-being.

Youth Journeys is a community-based program offered by Front Porch that provides safe, supportive, and engaging after-school and summer activities for youth in Eastside Jackson County. This program is designed specifically for young people facing the complex challenges that often lead to involvement with violence, substance use, and mental health struggles. By addressing these risks through prevention, education, and positive relationships, Youth Journeys helps youth build resilience and develop the skills they need to thrive.

The Local Challenge: Violence, Trauma & Inequality

Jackson County’s children face many obstacles that contribute to a higher risk of violence and trauma. Nearly one-third of children live in single-parent households, and many families struggle with poverty, food insecurity, and unstable housing. The county experiences higher rates of child abuse investigations and juvenile court referrals related to violence and delinquent behavior compared to statewide averages.

These issues are compounded by systemic challenges such as racial disparities in education, healthcare, and legal systems. Children living in these environments often experience toxic stress from ACEs such as neglect, abuse, and household dysfunction. Toxic stress can negatively affect brain development and increase the likelihood of risky behaviors like drug use and aggression.

Moreover, youth are most vulnerable during after-school hours when supervision is limited, and unsupervised time can lead to engagement in risky activities. Research shows that juvenile crime and violence peak between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., making programs that provide safe, supervised spaces during these times critical to prevention efforts.

A Safe Space For Growth & Learning

Youth Journeys responds directly to these challenges by offering no-cost, trauma-informed programming that combines supervision, education, and emotional support for youth in Eastside Jackson County. The program focuses on serving children and teens who live in high-risk environments and face barriers to positive development.

Key components of Youth Journeys include:

• Social-Emotional Learning: Each session incorporates activities and discussions that help participants understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and develop positive communication skills. Trauma-informed practices ensure that youth feel safe and supported.
• Community Engagement: Youth are encouraged to connect with their community through service projects, team-building activities, and local events that foster a sense of belonging and responsibility.
• Life Skills Development: The program teaches practical skills, including decision-making, conflict resolution, and goal-setting, that empower youth to make positive choices and plan for their futures.
• Nutrition Support: To address food insecurity—a significant barrier for many families—Youth Journeys provides snacks and lunches during programming sessions, ensuring participants have the nourishment they need to focus and engage.
• Expert-Led Discussions: Front Porch partners with Children's Mercy Hospital and other local experts to lead age-appropriate conversations on critical topics such as healthy relationships, consent, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention.

Building Resilience To Break Cycles Of Violence

Youth Journeys recognizes that youth violence does not stem from a single cause but results from the interaction of multiple factors including environmental stressors, family dynamics, and peer influence. The program adopts a holistic, strength-based approach, focusing on building resilience rather than only addressing problems.

By fostering positive adult and peer relationships, Youth Journeys helps youth develop a sense of connectedness, which research shows is a protective factor against poor mental health, substance use, and violent behavior. The program’s supportive environment encourages participants to express themselves, practice empathy, and develop healthy coping strategies.

Impacting Youth & Community

The outcomes of Youth Journeys extend beyond the individual participants. By providing structured and supportive programming during high-risk hours, the program reduces the likelihood that youth will engage in violence or substance use. This prevention has ripple effects throughout families and neighborhoods, contributing to safer and healthier communities.

Youth Journeys also directly addresses opportunity gaps linked to socioeconomic disparities. Children from higher-income families often have greater access to enrichment activities, while youth in Eastside Jackson County face barriers that limit their participation in such experiences. By offering no-cost programming that meets the whole child’s needs—including emotional, social, and physical—the program helps level the playing field.

Data-Driven & Community-Focused

The program’s design and implementation are guided by local data and community needs assessments. According to the 2022 Missouri Student Survey and regional reports, youth violence, bullying, and substance use are increasing concerns. These statistics underscore the importance of accessible, culturally responsive prevention programs.

Youth Journeys collaborates with local schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure that programming aligns with evidence-based best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens the program’s impact and fosters trust within the community.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Youth Success

Youth Journeys is committed to sustaining its positive impact through ongoing evaluation, community engagement, and adaptation to emerging needs. By investing in the social-emotional development and well-being of Eastside Jackson County youth, the program aims to create a foundation for lifelong success.

Through empowering youth with the skills, relationships, and supports necessary to navigate challenges, Youth Journeys contributes to breaking the cycle of violence and building a brighter future for individuals and the community alike.

Locations

Click on the window icon (upper right corner) of the map below to expand. List of all program locations is included with expanded view of map. Locations are also listed on this page below the map.