PUBLIC SAFETY SPENDING
Investing in Youth IS Public Safety
Every year, it costs Mesa County $92,000 to incarcerate a single youth—double the salary of a public school teacher. Yet, the county continues to invest more in punitive measures like incarceration than in youth prevention and education. This imbalance impacts young individuals' futures and strains our communities' financial resources, raising essential questions about where public money is going.
In Mesa County, the disparity is apparent: significantly more money is spent on incarcerating youth than on preventative education programs. The average cost to educate a student pales in comparison to the staggering $92,000 per year spent on incarcerating a single youth in the Division of Youth Services (Colorado Division of Youth Services). To put this into perspective, the cost of incarcerating one youth could cover the salaries of two teachers.
ONE INCARCERATED YOUTH = TWO TEACHER SALARIES
Why We Need a Shift: The Benefits of Prevention
The long-term benefits of youth prevention programs cannot be overstated. They reduce the likelihood of youth becoming involved in criminal activity, improve educational outcomes, and reduce the overall cost to society. Communities investing in youth prevention see lower crime rates and more engaged, contributing young adults. For example, youth crime rates have dropped significantly in counties that prioritize these programs, proving that prevention works.
Programs supported by the Colorado Division of Youth Services and others have shown that reducing recidivism and fostering better life outcomes save money and strengthen community bonds (Evaluation of the Colorado Youth Detention Continuum, Recidivism Evaluation).
Collaboration is Key
Preventing youth from entering the criminal justice system requires a collaborative effort from the entire community. Schools, businesses, non-profits, and families must come together to create a support network for at-risk youth. For example, local companies can provide mentorship and job training opportunities. At the same time, schools can enhance access to tutoring, counseling, and after-school programs. By working together, we can ensure these young individuals have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Studies such as the Educational Outcomes Evaluation show the positive impacts of educational interventions for youth within the system.
The financial case for youth prevention is clear: Communities that invest in prevention programs save millions of dollars over time while fostering a brighter future for their youth. Public safety is not just about reacting to crime—it's about preventing it before it begins. By shifting funds from incarceration to prevention, Mesa County can ensure a safer, more prosperous future for all.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
The choice is clear: investing in youth prevention today is an investment in our collective future. But it requires more than just awareness; it requires action. Here's how you can make a difference:
Hold Leaders Accountable: Attend local budget meetings and demand that public safety dollars are reallocated toward youth education and prevention programs. Review relevant documents such as the Mesa County 2023 Adopted Budget, the MCOR Two-Year Plan, or the Grand Junction Annual Budget. Ask your representatives where your tax money is going and push for transparency in public spending.
Support Local Programs: Get involved with or donate to organizations in your community that work directly with at-risk youth. These programs need community backing to succeed, and your support can make a significant impact. Programs supported by the Colorado Division of Youth Services offer a range of services focusing on prevention and rehabilitation.
Advocate for Policy Changes: Partner with TFI’s A-Team made up of local leaders, schools, and local businesses to advocate for policies that prioritize prevention over punishment. For example, local businesses can provide internship opportunities for at-risk youth, while schools offer tutoring and counseling services. Work with your local government to ensure that youth programs are adequately funded and integrated into public safety strategies. Reports like the Evaluation of the Colorado Youth Detention Continuum and the Recidivism Evaluation of the Colorado Division of Youth Services highlight the effectiveness of these initiatives and provide useful data to inform local policy decisions.