Our Mission
To advocate for and protect the safety and well-being of dependent and delinquent youth in Sonoma County
Who We Are
Sections 225 through 331 of the California State Welfare and Institutions Code mandates the existence of a Juvenile Justice Commission in each county throughout the state. The Juvenile Justice Commission is composed of seven to fifteen community volunteers, appointed to four-year terms by the Presiding Judge of the Sonoma County Superior Court. Up to two youth members are eligible and encouraged to apply for membership.
Duties and Responsibilities as Mandated by State Law
Inspections of all local institutions and facilities housing juveniles. Inspection results and Recommendations are reported in writing and sent to the Juvenile Court and the Board of Corrections.
What We Do
Inspect Juvenile Hall and all other public facilities housing minors (including jails that house juveniles.) Inspect group homes housing youth in Sonoma County to ensure that residents are treated with dignity and respect, are safe and treated in a humane and just manner and that their educational, social and recreational needs are met.
Become a Commissioner!
Vacancies occur from time to time on the Juvenile Justice Commission. We welcome volunteers willing and able to make a four-year commitment to serve on the Commission.
“Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.”
Check out our new video:
“Foster Youth in Crisis.” This fast-paced, informative 14 minute video includes interviews with former foster youth and group home staff about the needs and issues of our most vulnerable dependent youth.
Recognition of Youth’s Educational Progress
The Juvenile Justice Commission supports the efforts of youth in the Juvenile System by presenting each young person in Sonoma County Group Homes, Juvenile Hall and Youth Probation Camp who has earned a GED or high school diploma with a certificate and modest financial gift.
Grievances or Complaints about Youth Facilities
The Commission investigates grievances and complaints regarding public facilities housing youth in Sonoma County: group homes, Juvenile Hall and Probation Camp. If you have a grievance or complaint, please contact the Sonoma County Juvenile Justice Commission by email on our website contact page, or by mail: JJC, PO Box 358, Santa Rosa, CA 95402. Please state your name and a way to contact you, the date, name and location of the facility you are concerned about, and a description of your concern. A commissioner will contact you as soon as possible.