MACARTHUR FOUNDATION

John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

As a member of the National Resource Bank of expert consultants, TAC provided support for the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Models for Change program, a national initiative to accelerate reform of juvenile justice systems. Focused on efforts in four states (Illinois, Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Washington), Models for Change creates replicable reforms that effectively hold young people accountable for their actions, provide for their rehabilitation, protect them from harm, increase their life chances, and manage the risk they pose to themselves and to public safety. 

TAC technical assistance focused on a range of topics including behavioral health evidence-based practices, workforce issues, and integrated data systems. TAC also supported the work of the MacArthur Foundation's Mental Health Action Network, in partnership with the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice at Policy Research Associates, Inc.

TAC is also a partner in the MacArthur Foundation-funded National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice collaboration with the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Hosted by Policy Research Associates, Inc., and designed to improve juvenile justice system responses to youth with behavioral health needs, eight states were competitively selected to participate in the Integrated Policy Academy/Action Network on Diversion of Justice-Involved Youth with Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Conditions.

TAC's technical assistance focuses on the development of models and strategies for early diversion of youth with co-occurring mental and substance use disorders from the juvenile justice system to appropriate community-based behavioral health services.