JUVENILE DETENTION OFFICERS
Position statement Statement of the problem:
Difficulties in recruiting and retaining talented staff now undermine the ability of juvenile detention centers to provide effective programs and services to detained youth.Nature of the issues:
The New Jersey Juvenile Detention Association recognizes that the most valued resource in a juvenile detention center is a highly qualified, committed, and professional workforce, who will provide meaningful programs and services for detained youth.The Juvenile Detention Officer is central to a detention center's efforts to protect the safety of the community, to create a safe and humane environment, to encourage life-changing behaviors, and to preserve a resident's legal rights.
To meet professional standards spelled out in the Manual of Standards for Juvenile Detention Centers, a detention center must implement effective strategies to recruit, select, and retain a talented staff.
Towards this end, the New Jersey Juvenile Detention Association actively supports efforts to enhance the professional growth of juvenile detention staff. NJJDA supports efforts to develop sound management practices that encourage equitable benefits for staff and create a productive and safe working environment.
Position Statement:
The New Jersey Juvenile Detention Association believes that Juvenile Detention Officers deserve the status and benefits comparable to corrections and law enforcement officers who perform the same kinds of service. The Association is dedicated to advocating for this position in every appropriate arena.