VIDA

Vital Intervention and Directional Alternatives (VIDA) is a structured 16-week program for non-violent, at-risk youth between the ages of eleven and seventeen. Through collaboration between the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, community-based organizations, volunteers, schools, and families, the VIDA program teaches youth the value of effective decision-making and taking responsibility for their futures.

Following the interview and selection for the program, youths attend an orientation night with their families. Once the program begins, VIDA staff members conduct home and school visits during the week to monitor social behaviors, reduce truancy, and improve academic performance.

At the conclusion of the program, each participant receives a certificate of completion and is referred to other community-based programs to continue their individual goals and careers. It is the hope that VIDA students and their families will emerge with stronger bonds in place, as well as better judgment, integrity, tact, initiative, commitment, respect, and a new take on life.  Several youths have gone on to participate in the YAL and Explorer Programs. After all, VIDA is life.