Incentives, Innovation, and Impact: A New Model for Digital Behavior Change Programming with Justice-Involved Youth

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Kyle Athans is Vice President of Sales at The Change Companies, where he leads partnership development and go-to-market strategy for organizations serving justice, behavioral health, treatment, reentry, and community supervision populations. He brings more than a decade of experience building high-growth sales organizations, scaling technology-enabled solutions, and developing meaningful partnerships across mission-driven sectors. At The Change Companies, Kyle focuses on helping agencies expand access to evidence-based behavior change tools in practical, scalable ways. His work supports probation, parole, treatment, and reentry organizations as they equip staff, engage participants, and strengthen the connection between programming, supervision, and long-term outcomes. Kyle is passionate about building partnerships rooted in listening, trust, and shared goals. He is committed to helping community corrections and behavioral health organizations modernize how they support individuals, improve engagement, and create lasting, positive change for the people and communities they serve.

Albert Bañuelos is the Deputy Director of Strategic Affairs for the Alameda County Probation Department, where he leads department-wide strategic initiatives, program development, and system improvement efforts. He brings 25 years of experience in probation, beginning his career at the entry level in Los Angeles County and rising through the ranks to executive leadership. Throughout his career, Albert has held key leadership positions in Los Angeles County Probation, including Executive Staff Senior Director, Adult Consultant, Superintendent, and Facility Director. In Alameda County, he has served as Superintendent and now contributes at the executive level, helping drive innovation and implementation of major departmental initiatives. Albert is known for advancing evidence-based practices and developing impactful rehabilitative programs for justice-involved youth. He co-developed and facilitated the Professional Development Academy in both Los Angeles and Alameda counties, demonstrating his commitment to leadership development and organizational growth. Albert remains passionate about building strong systems, developing people, and creating meaningful opportunities for clients and staff alike.

Richard Valle serves as an Assistant Superintendent with the Alameda County Probation Department, where he provides executive-level leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for operations within the Juvenile Facilities Division. With nearly two decades of experience in juvenile institutional services since 2006, Mr. Valle oversees facility operations, security, staffing, and program implementation to ensure safe, effective, and compliant custodial environments for youth. In his role, he directs and supports supervisory staff across multiple levels, ensuring appropriate staffing, operational continuity, and adherence to departmental policies and state standards, while also leading recruitment, training, programming, mentorship, and performance oversight efforts. Mr. Valle works collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including education partners, community representatives, and families, to support coordinated services and positive youth outcomes. Known for his strong leadership, sound judgment, and commitment to continuous improvement, Mr. Valle brings extensive expertise in institutional operations, compliance, and program development. He is widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, and dedication to advancing the mission of juvenile justice through safety, rehabilitation, and organizational excellence.