Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs

Huge thanks to Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives - OFBCI for stopping by last week. Great conversations, great energy, and inspiring ideas for upcoming programming. We’re grateful for your partnership as we continue building pathways of hope for our community.

Hope grows when young people are given opportunities to see a different future.

The Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) is working intentionally to bring more local programming and positive community connections to the youth at the Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center (COJC). More than simply adding activities, they are creating a culture shift—one that helps young people recognize their potential, experience hope, and become part of something bigger than themselves.

Today's conversation focused on identifying local partnership opportunities and learning more about the systems OJA has in place to screen, train, and equip volunteers to serve safely and effectively. It was encouraging to see the thoughtful approach being taken to ensure the right people are connected in the right ways.

We know that when agencies, faith communities, nonprofits, and local leaders come together around a shared purpose, incredible things can happen. By bringing the right partners to the table, we can help ignite hope, build healthy connections, and support young people as they pursue positive change and brighter futures.

The future of Oklahoma is worth investing in—and so are the young people who will shape it.

Hope grows when young people are given opportunities to see a different future.

The Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) is working intentionally to bring more local programming and positive community connections to the youth at the Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center (COJC). More than simply adding activities, they are creating a culture shift—one that helps young people recognize their potential, experience hope, and become part of something bigger than themselves.

Today's conversation focused on identifying local partnership opportunities and learning more about the systems OJA has in place to screen, train, and equip volunteers to serve safely and effectively. It was encouraging to see the thoughtful approach being taken to ensure the right people are connected in the right ways.

We know that when agencies, faith communities, nonprofits, and local leaders come together around a shared purpose, incredible things can happen. By bringing the right partners to the table, we can help ignite hope, build healthy connections, and support young people as they pursue positive change and brighter futures.

The future of Oklahoma is worth investing in—and so are the young people who will shape it.

OJA is HIRING!

The Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center is growing its team. If you’re passionate about making a real impact in the lives of youth who need stability, guidance, and strong role models, we want to meet you.

Our work isn’t always easy, but it is meaningful. Every day brings a chance to change a life for the better.

See the comments for the link to apply and information about the sign-on bonus.

🌟 Oklahoma is leading the way! 🌟

Two Oklahoma citizens just received national awards from the Coalition for Juvenile Justice — a powerful recognition of the innovative, youth‑centered work happening in our state.

Read the full story in our latest press release.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/OKOJA/bulletins/41550a7

OJA is thrilled to celebrate Carol and Pray'Eon! Your passion and commitment make a real difference every day, and seeing you honored on this list reminds us how lucky we are to collaborate with such outstanding individuals.

Congratulations from all of us!

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!

Today OJA celebrates our Oklahoma Youth Academy Charter School teachers and staff who pour their passion, creativity, and heart into every lesson. Your dedication shapes futures, inspires confidence, and makes our community stronger.

Thank you for showing up, lifting up, and never giving up. We appreciate you more than words can say. 💛

To every field staff member: your work matters, your presence matters, and you matter.

We see you. We appreciate you. And this week, we celebrate the heart you bring to public service every single day. 💛✨

Today, we continue Public Service Employee Recognition Week by shining a light on the field staff who turn compassion into action every day.

You are the steady hands, trusted guides, and problem solvers who meet youth where they are and help them move forward with confidence.

Thank you for leading with heart, showing up with purpose, and making a difference that lasts. 💛

On Day 2 of Public Service Employee Recognition Week, we begin celebrating our incredible field staff. The mentors and problem solvers supporting youth in their communities. Your dedication shapes futures and strengthens our community.

Thank you for showing up with heart every day. 💛

We’re celebrating Day 1 of Public Service Employee Week by shining a spotlight on our amazing secure care team!

Your commitment to empowering youth and showing up with strength and empathy makes all the difference. Thank you for leading with heart and purpose!