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The Power of Connection: Building Trust with Justice-Involved Youth
SESSION INFO
Monday, August 17, 2026
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Session Type: Workshop
Professionals working in probation, detention, and diversion programs often face a significant challenge when working with justice-involved youth: building trust while maintaining accountability. Many young people entering the juvenile justice system have experienced trauma, instability, and strained relationships with authority figures. This session explores practical strategies professionals can use to build meaningful connections with justice-involved youth while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. Drawing from years of experience working directly with youth in detention and court-involved settings, participants will learn communication approaches that encourage engagement, reflection, and accountability. Through discussion and scenario-based examples, attendees will gain practical tools they can apply during supervision meetings, group programs, and daily interactions to strengthen rapport and improve outcomes with youth under their supervision.
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SESSION PRESENTERS
John Mead
CEO & Founder, MVA Wellness
John Mead is a keynote speaker and trainer with more than seventeen years of experience working directly within the juvenile justice system. His work has focused on supporting justice-involved youth in detention and court-involved settings, helping young people understand the consequences of their decisions and develop the skills needed to make healthier choices. Through years of collaboration with probation officers, court professionals, educators, and treatment providers, John has developed practical approaches that emphasize accountability, empathy, and perspective. His work focuses on equipping professionals with strategies that help strengthen relationships with youth while promoting responsibility and long-term behavior change. John delivers keynote presentations and professional trainings for organizations that serve youth, schools, and community agencies. His sessions focus on integrity, decision-making, and communication strategies for professionals working in demanding environments. He has delivered speaking engagements and trainings both domestically and internationally, including recent work and travel in Estonia and Amsterdam. Drawing from his frontline experience, John’s goal is to provide professionals with practical tools that strengthen leadership, build trust with youth, and support positive outcomes in community corrections.
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