Youth Assessment Center

The Youth Assessment Center (YAC) is a juvenile diversion program whose purpose is to redirect youth from the criminal justice system. Available to all youth in Champaign County aged 10-17, YAC serves as a centralized processing, referral, and evaluation center for families, schools, service agencies and local law enforcement. YAC facilitates a range of preventative services to uplift, promote safety, build competency, as well as hold area youth accountable for any violations of the law.

How Does the Center Work?

When a referral is made, or a parent/guardian reaches out to the Youth Assessment Center, a YAC team member will schedule a meeting with the child and caregiver.  Together, they will complete a screening to help understand the youth’s needs and any problems he/she is facing.  Information from the screening will be used to determine specific recommendations and resources for the child and/or their family, such as Peer Court, Victim/Offender Mediation, Parenting with Love and Limits, and other health services. YAC staff act as a liaison to ensure the youth’s connection with the program and will followup to determine if further assistance is necessary. Youth determined eligible for diversion are placed on contracts with consequences, support and supervision.

Hours of Operation:

The Youth Assessment Center is located at 402 N. Randolph St. near Downtown Champaign, and is open:

• Monday:  10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Tues – Fri:  10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

For more information, contact the Youth Assessment Center: 217-239-5933 or [email protected].