Cuyahoga County, Ohio, has long struggled with the highest youth incarceration rates in the state, leading to the establishment of the Youth Justice Collaborative in 2022. Spearheaded by Ayesha Bell Hardaway, a professor at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, the initiative seeks to reform the youth justice system by fostering collaboration among community advocates, court officials, and service providers. The Collaborative's mission is to transition the youth justice system from punitive measures to restorative practices that prioritize equity and support.

With bi-monthly meetings drawing around 50 participants, the group discusses strategies to address systemic gaps and improve outcomes for at-risk youth. Recent discussions have highlighted the challenges faced by very young children in the justice system and the need for comprehensive support services. The Collaborative has also conducted site visits to successful national programs, such as Restorative Justice for Oakland Youth, to learn effective practices.

As it moves into an implementation phase, the Collaborative plans to establish a Youth Advisory Council to ensure that young people's voices are included in reform efforts. The overarching goal is to provide youth with the opportunities they need to thrive, minimizing their involvement in the legal system.