Who are the Friends of YJI?

The Friends of YJI’s mission is to raise funds through targeted efforts to support and enhance services of the Youth Justice Initiative (YJI) in West Des Moines (WDM), Iowa.

Friends of YJI is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which means your donations are tax deductible per the IRS guidelines.

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Who is YJI?

YJI’s Mission is to develop and sustain restorative processes in our community to promote healing, increase accountability and provide support.

Since 2000, YJI has been an organic approach to crime and crime prevention in WDM community.

West Des Moines City Council Meeting
– January 17, 2023

YJI’s ecosystem of collective community care incorporates restorative practices, academic strengthening, family engagement, and community service. Community members help youth grow socially, emotionally, and to be accountable. YJI engages the community to encourage youth to:

Make positive changes in school attendance and performance,
Improve family relationships,
Refrain from drug use,
Reduce criminal activity, and
Become positive participatory citizens.

Peaceful vibes during summer program.

“Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are gives us all the best opportunity for growing into the healthiest of people.”
-Fred rogers