CARE - George Junior Republic

Working Together for the Best Interest of Every Child

This article highlights the career journey of Jenn Freed, Campus Director at George Junior Republic. From starting as a Clinical Manager in 2007 to earning her M.S.W. and advancing into leadership, Jenn’s story reflects dedication to youth care, therapeutic services, and the GJR mission. Learn how her early internships at GJR shaped her passion for helping young people and prepared her to oversee Special Needs programs SN12, SN15, and SN16 today.

Meeting People Where They Are

At George Junior Republic, the Transportation Team practices CARE by meeting youth where they are—emotionally, developmentally, and situationally. From first impressions to daily support, drivers embody CARE principles in every interaction.

Building Stronger Connections

Building Stronger Connections: Patterson Finds Creativity in Clay At George Junior Republic, the CARE model doesn’t just guide how we work with youth; it also shapes how we support and

CARE as an Evidence-Based Practice

In a multi-site study, CARE implementation yielded monthly reductions of 3–8% in behavioral incidents, while child-staff relationships and perceptions of safety improved significantly. Recognized as a ‘Promising Research Evidence-Based Model’ at the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse, CARE stands as a shining example of research-driven change in residential care.

You Have to Feel It to Heal It

This blog post highlights how CARE principles are transforming Secure Detention into a space where young people feel safe, respected, and supported. Through personal stories, including a youth who experienced his first-ever birthday celebration, the article shows how trust, compassion, and connection can foster healing and growth. It also emphasizes the importance of supporting families alongside the youth, working to change the perception of Secure Detention into one of care and opportunity.

From Correction to Connection: CARE in Juvenile Justice

This reflection highlights the impact of implementing CARE within juvenile justice facilities. The author, new to CARE, shares how small, intentional actions—such as easing anxiety, offering connection, and responding with understanding—can make a significant difference for youth who have often faced harsh treatment in other placements. Unlike facilities focused only on rules and regulations, George Junior actively applies CARE principles, fostering unique, individualized approaches for each child. While still early in their journey, the author believes CARE has limitless potential to transform experiences for justice-involved youth and looks forward to creating meaningful CARE moments of their own.

The Comfort and Cost of Familiarity

Jolie forms an immediate bond with a person served due to their shared Puerto Rican heritage. Initially, this connection creates comfort, but as the “honeymoon phase” fades, the youth begins acting out. A late-night incident reveals that the staff member’s voice and accent remind him of his mother, triggering difficult emotions. Realizing this, the staff member adjusts their approach, learning that while they can’t change their accent, they can change their tone to better support and communicate with him.

Real Change in Team Mindset

Over the past two years, Andrew Johnson has witnessed a powerful shift in how CARE is being understood and implemented at George Junior Republic. Through active involvement in treatment team meetings and consistent promotion of reflective practice, he has seen skepticism give way to genuine openness. Teams that were once resistant to CARE are now embracing it, discussing outcomes collaboratively, and seeking solutions rooted in empathy and understanding. This cultural transformation highlights the deepening impact of CARE and the collective effort to improve services for youth.

From Crisis to Connection: One Youth’s Turning Point

This powerful reflection shares a firsthand account of how the CARE model transforms moments of crisis into opportunities for connection, healing, and growth. Through the story of one youth’s emotional journey, Christina illustrates how being present, patient, and compassionate can make all the difference—and why CARE is more than a practice; it’s a way of being.

From Skeptic to Advocate: Embracing the CARE Model at GJR

In this reflective post, a dedicated staff member at George Junior Republic shares her journey from CARE skeptic to passionate advocate. Drawing on years of experience in various roles—including her current position as the first female Campus Supervisor—she highlights the transformative power of developmental relationships and the CARE model. Her story underscores the importance of integrity, consistency, and putting youth first to create lasting, positive change across campus.

Category: CARE