In 2009, over 30,000 crimes were committed by teenagers in the city of Los Angeles. That is one in five kids who committed a crime involving gangs, drugs or prostitution. Unfortunately, due to complex circumstances, many parents do not have the skills or resources it takes to keep their child from a life of crime.

The Juvenile Impact Program (JIP) is a Los Angeles based 12-week boot camp style program run by LAPD officers for troubled youth. The JIP is the only boot camp of its kind that is entirely funded by private contributions through the Los Angeles Police Foundation and offered at no cost to families in need.

The JIP program seeks to reverse negative behavior in defiant teens by offering a structured educational curriculum under the supervision and guidance of certified teachers that includes physical training, classroom instruction, guest speaking engagements, and one-on-one time with police officers.

Unlike most other teen boot camp programs, JIP has a mandatory parenting course designed to help them deal with the many challenges teens present. Through group therapy support, parents learn ways to discipline without yelling or abuse, to build and enhance their child's self-esteem, and to develop a strong sense of responsibility in their child. Other issues addressed are domestic violence, and drug, alcoholism and gang recognition.

Since its inception in 1993, JIP has positively redirected the lives of over 10,000 teenagers that have graduated from the program. With its proven 80% success rate, JIP graduates have gone on to be successful in school, have improved relationships with parents and make more disciplined and responsible choices in their lives.

For more information visit us at www.lapolicefoundation.org.