Read about our clients and staff successes
Rooted in Loisaida: Celebrating the roots, rhythms, and reflections that continue to shape our work.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re honoring the culture that helped shape our organization and continues to live throughout our staff and Participants. We asked members of the AFJ community to share a few of the sounds and stories that stay with them.
Tea with the ED: What a Hairbrush Has to Do With Perception
During my time with AFJ, I have witnessed incredible transformation, breakthrough and resilience while walking alongside hundreds of young people. Still, there are moments that stop me cold.
Seven Weeks of Prevention, Perspective, and Possibility
This summer, Avenues for Justice (AFJ) proudly hosted the second cohort of our Gun Violence Prevention Initiative (GVPI).
AFJ Voices | The True History of Mass Incarceration in America - Part 4
The 1950s through the 1970s transformed America.
How He Kept Showing Up for Himself: Darrian’s Story
At just 20 years old, Darrian was at a crossroad in his life and unclear at how to move past a legal situation he was confronted with. He sat down with Elsie to talk through what was he was facing.
Joy Is Part of AFJ’s Work!
Before the week comes to an end, we want to celebrate something that is just as much a part of our work as court advocacy, legal support, diversion, and prevention: joy.
AFJ Voices | The True History of Mass Incarceration in America - Part 3
By the late 1800s, Jim Crow shaped nearly every aspect of life. Laws determined where Black people could live, attend school, travel, eat, work, vote, and gather. Poll taxes and literacy tests restricted political participation.
Meet Ricky and Aaliyah, AFJ’s New Court Advocates!
This week, we’re thrilled to introduce two new Court Advocates who joined our team earlier this summer!
AFJ Voices | Beyond the Mandate: When Protecting Yourself Makes You a Threat
Ten years after graduating from Avenues for Justice (AFJ), Kenny’s story shows what can happen when young people have opportunities, trusted relationships, and a community that continues to believe in them.
Meet Avenues for Justice’s 2026 Impact Awards Angel Rodriguez Award Recipient: Program Graduate Jily Bonilla
We are proud to honor Jily as the 2026 Angel Rodriguez Award Recipient. Join us at our 2026 Impact Awards Dinner on October 14th as we celebrate Jily!
When the Justice System Becomes the Mental Health System
Every July, National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Month, established in honor of author and advocate Bebe Moore Campbell, calls attention to the unique mental health challenges facing communities of color in the United States.
Kaylin & Naiyana: Reaching New Educational Milestones Against the Odds
This week, we are proud to highlight Kaylin and Naiyana, who worked diligently with their Court Advocates to check off all the boxes in their IAPs, including graduating from high school and applying for college.
AFJ Voices | The True History of Mass Incarceration in America - Part 2
The next chapter of this history takes us through one of the most transformative periods in American history: the decades leading up to and immediately following the Civil War.
Journey to Graduation Side by Side
AFJ Participants, Brianna and Shania, celebrate receiving their diplomas and officially graduating from high school, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter together for both.
AFJ Voices | The True History of Mass Incarceration in America - Part 1
To understand why the United States incarcerates more people than almost any other nation in the world, we must understand the systems that came before prisons.
A Strong Start to Our Summer
Over the past few weeks, we've celebrated Juneteenth, honored fathers and father figures, premiered an important documentary on fatherhood, and welcomed inspiring entrepreneurs to share their journeys with our young people.
AFJ Voices | When Curiosity Is Mistaken for Trouble
AFJ Participant Max has always had a strong interest in New York City’s trains and the transit system. He lights up when he talks about the old trains, subway lines, and the way he navigates the city – saying that if he can get on a train or a bus, he can find his way home.
When Community Gives Back By Speaking Potential Into Our Young People
AFJ’s Juneteenth Father's Day Panel brought together an extraordinary group of leaders, including Reverend A.R. Bernard, Congressman Dan Goldman, Assembly Member Keith Powers, Commissioner Wade Hardy, AFJ Facilitator Dr. Dennis Ibude, legal analyst Brian G. Buckmire, and AFJ
