Department of Juvenile JusticeIn the early years, the approach to juvenile justice was one of "rehabilitation" ("Department of Juvenile Justice", 2012). The Department of Health and Rehabilitation Services, or HRS, was responsible for a wide range of responsibilities, from criminal cases involving youth to cases of child abuse or neglect. The ministry was expected to uphold a moral standard, providing optimal resources to at-risk youth and their families, as well as providing services aimed at improving their social well-being. Services have been structured to help everyone involved, through a rehabilitation model. In 1994, the juvenile justice system reorganized its program, moving away from its social services model (History, 2012); in addition, the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) came into existence. DJJ is a valuable resource for at-risk youth and families; bringing together community organizations committed to the continuous improvement of the juvenile justice system. According to the website, the Legislature created the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), providing for the transfer of powers, functions, property, records, personnel and unexpended balances of related appropriations and other funds from the HRS Office of Juvenile Justice Program to the new agency. DJJ was given responsibility for juvenile delinquency files and files for children and families in need of services (CINS/FINS) (para. 2). Throughout its transition, the ministry never loses its objective, namely the rehabilitation of our young people, rather than labeling them as criminal delinquents. Seemingly a long way to go, DJJ continued to grow and make changes, moving further away from its traditional roots, which began with HRS. In 2000, legislation called "t...... middle of paper... continues to reform and evolve with the needs of surrounding communities. With a vision that states: “Florida's children and families will live in safe, nurturing communities that provide for their needs, recognize their strengths, and support their success” (“Department of Juvenile Justice,” 2012), I believe that he organization will continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of today's youth. Given the growing youth population and increasing crime rates, I would suggest that the department continues to advocate and promote change. As a result, we will see more organizations emerge to join the fight.ReferencesDepartment of Juvenile Justice. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.djj.state.fl.us/about-us/historyKey Juvenile Crime Trends and Conditions. (nd). Retrieved from http://www.danielcarter.us/juvenile_info/stati.htm