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The Youth Liaison Officer is responsible for cultivating positive, long-term relationships with young people to improve community safety. This role focuses on mentorship, proactive engagement, and ensuring that the voices of a diverse cross-section of youth are heard by the Department.
Here is a summary of their core responsibilities:
1. Mentorship & Program Management
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Core Programs: Manages and coordinates established youth initiatives such as D.A.R.E., G.R.E.A.T., Peer Jury, Police Explorers, and the Police Athletic and Arts League (PAALs).
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Education: Conducts youth forums and seminars on safety-related topics at least once a year based on the specific needs of the district.
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School Coordination: Partners closely with School Resource Officers (SROs) and maintains a directory of school staff and contact information.
2. Inclusive Relationship Building
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Diverse Input: Facilitates regular meetings with a racially and socio-economically diverse group of youth to gather input on issues affecting their lives.
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Focus on At-Risk Youth: Specifically targets outreach toward "at-risk" youth and those who have been previously incarcerated or involved in the juvenile justice system.
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Strategic Partnerships: Collaborates with religious institutions, civic groups, and public agencies to create comprehensive outreach strategies.
3. Strategic Planning & Oversight
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District Goals: Coordinates youth engagement priorities as outlined in the district’s strategic plan.
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Committee Leadership: Leads the District Advisory Council Youth Engagement Subcommittee at least once every two months.
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Community Presence: Makes regular visits to youth-based organizations to maintain high visibility and accessibility.
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9th District Youth Officer
P.O Nadine Bahena
Contact. Nadine.bahena@chicagopolice.org