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The Council reviews, and when appropriate, responds to issues and legislation that affect juvenile justice in the State. An in-depth and routine review of Juvenile Court and probation standards is an essential task of the Council. The Council also takes an active role in sponsoring legislation related to juvenile justice topics. When appropriate, members will testify at public/private hearings and speak with government representatives to ensure the laws governing the juvenile justice system meet the needs of the community, victims and the youth it serves.
Ongoing education and training for probation officers and child care staff is encouraged and supported by the Council. Council members suggest topics for the Center for Juvenile Justice Training and Research annual training programs. Recent programs have focused on Balanced and Restorative Justice issues and practices, victim services, satanic cults, educational law, probation officer safety, cultural diversity, gangs, etc. In addition, Council members instruct courses in the undergraduate and graduate Criminal Justice Program numerous institutions of higher learning. In addition, they are key presenters at various national conferences and workshops.
Many common areas concerning juvenile justice issues are supported jointly by the Council and the Commission. Many training and educational initiatives are collaborative efforts between these two influential organizations.
The Council's knowledge, experience and professionalism continue to positively influence the quality of juvenile justice throughout the nation.
In 1967, Chief Juvenile Probation Officers from across the state met to form an organization that would represent their ideas, their standards for probation services and their desire to improve the juvenile justice system.
The Council speaks out collectively on topics such as: services to delinquent and dependent children, training, research, standards, professional status and compensation.
On November 14, 1997, in commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of the Council, the Governor of Pennsylvania cited the Council for its leadership on juvenile justice issues and for its diligence and dedication in creating a better system of rehabilitation for the youth of Pennsylvania.
Active memberships are available to county juvenile probation departments. Active members conduct the business of the Council and elect officers of the Council on the basis of one vote per county.
Supporting agency memberships are also available. Supporting members are juvenile justice agencies and organizations with an interest in the field of juvenile justice.
Additionally, supporting individual memberships are available to individuals who are not actively associated with county probation departments or supporting agencies, but who wish to participate in the business of the Council.
All members have the right to participate in all meetings and programs, receive all materials printed by the Council and serve on council committees, including serving as committee chairpersons if asked by the Council president.
