Programs

Diversion

Our diversion programs help youth ages 6-17 increase responsible behaviors at home, school and their community, so that they do not become involved with the juvenile justice system. 

Under this program area, Haven House operates two services:

  • Juvenile Diversion Team – Works with youth referred through community and justice partners to address behavioral concerns and strengthen family and community support systems.
  • School-Based Diversion – Partners directly with schools to support students experiencing behavioral or attendance challenges, helping them stay engaged in learning and connected to positive resources.

Both programs focus on understanding the underlying reasons behind behaviors and helping youth develop skills that lead to healthier long-term outcomes.

Participants in Diversion Programs have access to:

  • Assessment of strengths and individual needs
  • Intensive case management and family support
  • Personalized goal planning
  • 24/7 support and crisis intervention

Involvement in the juvenile justice system can have lasting impacts, including disruptions to education, barriers to employment and higher education, and increased emotional and physical health challenges. Diversion programs intervene early, addressing root causes and helping youth stay connected to school, family, and community supports.

By focusing on prevention and skill-building, these programs help young people move forward on a more positive path.

Diversion Programs may help if a youth is:

  • Struggling with school attendance or receiving suspensions
  • Running away, missing curfew, or frequently leaving home without permission
  • Having difficulty following rules at home, school, or in the community

Second Round is a fitness-based after-school program for youth and young adults ages 12–21 that builds confidence, self-discipline, and leadership through movement, mentorship, and community. Participants develop healthy coping skills, positive relationships, and lifelong wellness habits in a safe, structured, and supportive environment that encourages physical, emotional, and social growth.

While many after-school and enrichment programs exist, cost and access can often create barriers for youth who would benefit most. Second Round provides free, supervised programming where young people can focus on wellness, build connections, and strengthen healthy decision-making skills.

 Youth participating in the Second Round have access to: 

  • A fully equipped gym, including an amateur sized boxing ring
  • Group/individual fitness sessions and fitness assessments
  • Goal setting, leadership development, and skill-building activities
  • A supportive community of peers and coaches

Second Round may be a good fit if you:

  • Want to connect to a positive peer group
  • Are engaging in negative behaviors that could lead to juvenile justice involvement and/or are already involved
  • Want help learning to better manage your emotions
  • Want to learn about wellness and learn ways to support your positive health

The Restitution and Community Service (RCS) program provides youth ages 10–19 with opportunities to complete supervised community service hours and earn restitution as ordered through juvenile court. The program focuses on helping young people take responsibility, build practical skills, and move forward successfully.

 Youth participating in RCS participate in:

  • Service activities at non-profit organizations across Wake County
  • Activities that build employment and workplace readiness skills
  • Experiences that strengthen responsibility, teamwork, and accountability

     

Providing youth with meaningful opportunities to give back allows them to demonstrate accountability while learning valuable life skills. Successfully completing court-ordered requirements helps young people exit the juvenile justice system and continue moving toward positive goals.

RCS emphasizes growth, responsibility, and second chances – supporting better outcomes for youth and stronger communities.

RCS works exclusively with youth referred through the juvenile justice system to complete court-ordered community service and/or restitution.