Supporting youth offenders is a priority to help avoid a relapse into criminal activity. On February 26, 2025, the Peer Support and Outreach Teams from Tarzana Treatment Centers College (TTC College) participated in the HOPE Event at the California State Prison in Lancaster. As a day overflowing with inspiration and positive messaging, the event points towards viable recovery outcomes for youth offenders.
With a focus on educating and supporting youth offenders who are struggling with substance use disorders, the power of such an impactful gathering is undeniable. Additionally, with a mission to reduce overdoses and promote long-term recovery of youth offenders within the prison system, the event reflects the ideals of TTC College. The program at TTC College believes in treating people on a level playing field.
HOPE = A Coalition Supporting Youth Offenders.
Moreover, the HOPE Event brought together a coalition of agency leaders, incarcerated individuals with lived experience, and community-based organizations. By focusing on behavioral health, substance use recovery, and mental wellness, these organizations hope to improve recovery rates for youth offenders. As the prison system grapples with a troubling rise in overdoses, this event is a proactive response. By aiming at breaking cycles of addiction in youth offenders, TTC College supports rehabilitation.
Such rehabilitation efforts occur through positive interactions that promote connection, education, and hope. The TTC College team members engaged in powerful conversations with participants throughout the day. Such discussions focus on developing coping strategies and support networks. Hence, the event fostered meaningful exchanges between youth offenders and individuals who have walked the path of addiction and found recovery. Thus, it offered a relatable and empowering message of resilience and transformation.
Peer Support Guides Youth Offenders in Lancaster
Moreover, the presence of TTC College’s Peer Support and Outreach Teams underscores the importance of peer-led support. For example, community reintegration is essential for youth offenders in substance use recovery. Such participation reflects the TTC College’s continued commitment to reaching individuals where they are. Indeed, TTC College supports the journey of youth offenders back into the community with dignity, knowledge, and encouragement.
In addition, TTC supports other organizations on the same path at such events. End Overdose was one of the organizations taking part. Their mission aligns with TTC’s prevention efforts, including Naloxone education and distribution. On the End Overdose Instagram page, the event’s success is celebrated with a group photo.
The HOPE EVENT = Hope for the Future
The HOPE Event represented more than a one-time gathering—it was a critical step toward shifting the culture around substance use in correctional facilities. Indeed, connecting youth offenders with trusted community resources and voices of lived experience is a vital step. Moreover, such an event helps lay the foundation for changes that can ripple beyond prison walls.
TTC College is proud to be part of this essential work. The Peer Support and Outreach Teams at TTC College look forward to continuing their education, empowerment, and recovery mission. When it comes to helping youth offenders, the focus is on one individual, one story, and one step at a time.