Reflecting on 2024

As we reflect on 2024, two powerful themes emerge: narrative and need. This year, we deepened our commitment to amplifying the stories that matter, countering harmful myths, and meeting the pressing needs of our client-partners with care and dignity.

Changing the Narrative

At the Crime Coverage Summit, hosted by the National Press Foundation and the Radio Television Digital News Association, client-partner Christina and I challenged journalists to adopt humanizing language when covering young people and violence. We reminded them that children are capable of incredible transformation and are so much more than their charges. This call for dignity aligns with the 2024-2026 AP Stylebook, which advises against terms like "juvenile" or "inmate," instead encouraging the use of person-first language that respects individuals’ humanity. Together, we’re working to shift the narrative toward one of care, equity, and possibility.

YSRP Executive Director Bianca van Heydoorn at the Crime Coverage Summit hosted by the National Press Foundation.

YSRP also contributed to news stories that reframed how Black and brown children are portrayed—not as problems or threats to public safety, but as people deserving of care and opportunity. Through our growing Speakers Bureau, client-partners shared their experiences with legislators in Pennsylvania, at several college campuses, including Duke University, at Parkway United Methodist Church in St. Louis, and in local high schools. Their powerful stories are fostering understanding, empathy, and a greater urgency for systemic change.

Meeting Critical Needs

This year, we joined the Philadelphia Reparations Taskforce, addressing the enduring legacy of slavery in the criminal legal system and advocating for reparations to support Black Philadelphians. Recognizing how deeply this legacy ties to the housing insecurity and financial hardships faced by many client-partners, we launched a new housing initiative. This pilot program provided one year of rental assistance to a small group of young people, reinforcing our belief that success isn’t just about reducing recidivism—it’s about helping individuals build stable, dignified lives with real opportunities.

Finding Joy in the Journey

This work is hard, and it’s easy to feel discouraged in the face of systemic challenges. That’s why moments of connection and celebration are essential. This year, we paused to reflect on a decade of impact with our 10-Year Anniversary celebration, which reminded us of the progress we’ve made and the strength of our community.

Through our partnership with the Philadelphia 76ers Assist for Safer Communities initiative, we hosted an Intergenerational Healing Circle led by former player Jumaine Jones, discussing the critical topic of mental health. Staff and client-partners also enjoyed several Sixers games, including an unforgettable Game 6 of the playoffs! Beyond their financial support, the Sixers gave us space to come together as a community—to be present, to laugh, and to celebrate joy amidst the daily challenges we face.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we prepare for the year ahead, we do so with renewed hope, confidence in our collective strength, and immense gratitude for the support of our community. Together, we can continue reshaping narratives, challenging systems of oppression, and building pathways to healing and opportunity.

Will you join us in ensuring this vital work continues?