Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and Intervention Summer Grant Program

The Virginia Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and Intervention Summer Grant Program is administered by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. This program is supported through federal funding from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act Title II Formula Grants Program. The initiative reflects a broader federal and state commitment to improving outcomes for youth by supporting evidence-based, trauma-informed programs that align with adolescent development research and address systemic challenges within the juvenile justice system. The primary purpose of this grant program is to fund diversion and prevention programs that provide structured enrichment opportunities for youth during the summer months. These programs are intended to reduce youth involvement in the juvenile justice system by offering constructive alternatives that promote positive development. Funded activities must align with one or more priority areas, including reducing disproportionality in the juvenile justice system, addressing behavioral health needs, supporting youth within their home communities, and increasing family and community engagement. All proposed programs must be grounded in research and data and demonstrate a trauma-informed approach to service delivery. The total anticipated funding available for this program is approximately 200000 in federal funds, with awards distributed through a competitive process. The grant period is fixed from January 1, 2027 through September 30, 2027, and extensions are not permitted. Funds are disbursed on a cost-reimbursement basis, meaning recipients must initially incur expenses and then request reimbursement. There is no matching fund requirement, and continuation funding is not available, though the program may be offered annually depending on funding availability and program success. Eligible applicants are limited to local units of government within Virginia. State agencies are not eligible to apply. While nonprofit, faith-based, and community organizations cannot apply directly, they may serve as implementation partners under the authority of an eligible locality. Applicants must meet several administrative requirements, including maintaining an active System for Award Management registration, possessing a Unique Entity Identifier, and being in good standing with state and federal agencies. They must also not be debarred or excluded from federal funding eligibility. The application process is conducted through the Online Grants Management System. Applicants must complete multiple components, including a project narrative, goals and objectives, detailed budget forms, and required certifications and attachments. The project narrative must demonstrate need, describe program implementation, and outline evaluation methods. Applications are scored competitively based on clarity, alignment with program goals, cost effectiveness, and overall strength of the proposal. A maximum of 100 points is available across categories such as narrative quality, objectives, budget, and compliance. The application deadline is August 18, 2026 at 12:00 p.m., and late submissions are not accepted. Award decisions are expected to be made by the Criminal Justice Services Board in October 2026. Successful applicants must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly financial and programmatic reports submitted through OGMS. These reports must include detailed performance data and financial documentation, and failure to comply may result in funding suspension or termination. Technical assistance is available throughout the application process. Applicants may contact DCJS staff via email for grant-related questions or seek support for system-related issues. An optional informational webinar is offered prior to the deadline to guide applicants through the process. Overall, this grant program represents a targeted investment in youth-focused prevention strategies aimed at improving community safety and long-term outcomes for at-risk youth populations in Virginia.

Ensure programs are evidence based and trauma informed; clearly demonstrate need and measurable outcomes; align proposal with priority areas; provide strong budget justification and compliance with guidelines