Since 1992, CYS has provided a unique combination of family and victim/offender mediation, restitution and conflict resolution services that have established it as a nationally recognized leader in Restorative Justice programs in which juvenile offenders mediate with their victims to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior and in which victims and the community are active participants in the restorative process. CYS practices and programs reflect restorative purposes that respond to crime by 1) identifying and taking steps to repair harm, 2) involving all stakeholders, and 3) transforming the traditional relationship between communities and government in response to crime.
 
CYS works in partnership with a variety of community and government agencies including South Bay One-Stop Business & Career Centers, five school districts, L.A. County Probation Department, L.A. County Juvenile Courts, four law enforcement agencies, the Department of Children and Family Services and numerous faith-based and community-based agencies to help create safe communities and safe schools that promote learning and positive youth development.

Trauma-Informed Lens 

CYS serves youth and families through a trauma-informed lens. Trauma-informed care is a treatment framework that acknowledges the widespread impacts of trauma on the quality of life, experiences and behaviors of youth and families. Youth and families referred to CYS receive assessment for the signs of trauma followed by responsive services and programs that encourage resilience and build skills for active resistance to re-traumatization.