Support for young men with first-time, non-violent convictions
LIFE SKILLS & EMPLOYMENT
The Young Adult Court empowers young men with non-violent felony charges to break the cycle of repeat offenses.
After 18-24 months of trauma-informed case management, peer mentorship, adherence to probationary requirements, and social, financial, and clinical support, they are eligible to have their felony dismissed upon graduation.
Transforming Lives & Building Futures for Young Men
Young Adult Court is an alternative to the traditional criminal justice system. It is available for young men ages 18–25 who live in Orange County. Eligible youth randomized into YAC will plead into the program.
Building Stable Foundations
Young men work with Orangewood staff to obtain housing referrals and resources for employment, education, parenting, healthcare, substance use, therapy, and life skills.
Restructuring Environments
Our care coordinators work hand in hand with young men to help them build their own positive support systems, encouraging their growth throughout the program.
Developing Skills
Young men can identify goals for their future and help reduce their risk of repeat charges.
Reclaiming Autonomy
We focus on empowering young men and offering them a second chance to reclaim opportunities for the future they want through independence and accountability.
Deepening Community
We offer group activities that help young men reconnect with their loved ones, community, and each other in stable ways.
This Is Rising Tide
Our Impact
If your application is approved, we’ll help you move into a safe, affordable apartment owned by Orangewood Foundation. We’ll also help you cover bills while you look for a job.
Uplifting young people in Orange County is the sole mission of Orangewood Foundation — and the impact of our work extends beyond the walls of a courtroom.
Community Trust
With program referrals from reputable attorneys in Orange County, Young Adult Court shows the powerful belief in our ability to support young men.
Growing Reach
Young Adult Court serves 50+ young men — and we’re expanding resources to support every eligible young person in Orange County.
Stable Futures
Our support systems help young men reduce their risk of repeat charges.
Life Changing Opportunities
Young Adult Court lessens the impact of 47,000 collateral consequences that result from felonies, including the right to vote, better housing opportunities and access to better jobs.
Learn More about Rising Tide Program Support
Rising Tide Program Partners
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Partner description donec ultricies a senectus. At nisi sed nascetur eu dignissim pretium pellentesque. Facilisis vitae maecenas etiam viverra venenatis tristique proin. Interdum feugiat potenti ultrices sed sit. Sem venenatis pellentesque pulvinar mi arcu nibh in.
Here’s How We Served Orange County
54
young people had a safe place to stay in Orangewood housing
268
days is the average amount of time that young people lived in Orangewood housing
$27k
was used to help young people find safe housing in emergency situations
$246k
in funding helped young people pay move-in costs in 2023
Rising Tide Program Gallery
Want to Help? Become a Partner.
We need support from community leaders who are passionate about helping young people start their path to independence. Lead a workshop, provide apartment space, or help cover a utility bill — however you can support, we’re excited to work with you!
Our Partners
We coordinate with local leaders who believe in young men’s potential to create a more equitable society. Orangewood Foundation provides the case management support for these young men but it takes a community to make lasting change.
Young Adult Court was founded by Judge Maria Hernandez with Orange County Superior Court and Dr. Elizabeth Cauffman with University of California, Irvine and is funded by grants acquired by UCI. We work in community with the Orange County District Attorney, Public Defender, and Office of Probation.
Read Their Stories & Inspire a Better Future
“
Orangewood welcomed me with open arms and they’ve always been supportive and helpful. They aren’t afraid to push me in the right direction, and I’m grateful.
Angel • Young Person
“
I’ve been working hard to build a better life for myself. In just a month, I worked with the Orangewood Foundation team to get my California ID, permit, and driver’s license. Now I can drive to work and school, which makes my day a lot easier. Balancing work and school is tough, but I’m determined to make it.
Michael • Young Person
See More Programs from Orangewood
ORANGEWOOD RESOURCE CENTER
Hot meals, groceries, clothing, & daily supplies for young people
Basic Needs & Support
HOUSING ASSISTANCE
Financial aid for move-in fees, housing stabilization, furnishings, and utility bills
Housing Support
RISING TIDE
Safe housing for young people who are homeless or from foster care
Transitional Housing
Support Our Mission
Donate today to help a young person start building their future.
Resources For Young People
Need support? See which of our programs may be right for you.
