Maryland § 8-603

§ 8-603.

    (a)    At-risk youth prevention and diversion programs shall be coordinated, monitored, and supported by local management boards.

    (b)    A local management board shall:

        (1)    develop a request for funds based on the recommendations of the local planning group convened in accordance with § 8-605(b) of this subtitle;

        (2)    award funds to local agencies or organizations to provide direct services;

        (3)    monitor and evaluate at-risk youth prevention and diversion program performance;

        (4)    provide technical assistance to at-risk youth prevention and diversion programs as needed;

        (5)    promote cost-effectiveness strategies;

        (6)    measure at-risk youth prevention and diversion program outcomes; and

        (7)    provide fiscal and program reports to the Office.

    (c)    As part of the prevention element of the 3-year plan developed by the Children’s Cabinet establishing priorities and strategies for the coordinated delivery of services for children and families, the local management board shall:

        (1)    assess the adequacy, availability, and accessibility of current community-based services that:

            (i)    prevent and divert entry and reentry into the juvenile system;

            (ii)    provide alternatives to incarceration and institutionalization;

            (iii)    prevent and divert criminal behavior; and

            (iv)    increase personal responsibility and self-sufficiency;

        (2)    identify unserved neighborhoods or communities with critical needs and significant numbers of at-risk or delinquent youth; and

        (3)    recommend programs that can be established or enhanced to address the unmet needs of youth and their families.