Commissioners approve submission and acceptance of FY '26 Youth & Family Engagement Diversion grant

Carroll County Commissioners approved the submission of the FY '26 Youth and Family Engagement Diversion application and authorized acceptance of any resulting award during the March 27 meeting. County staff described the program as a pass-through state-funded contract that supports the Carroll County Youth Service Bureau (CCYSB) to provide case management and behavioral health services for youth involved with the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS).

Celine Steckle, Director of Citizen Services, introduced the item and was joined by Ed Singer, the local management board manager. Singer explained that DJS contracts with local management boards to pay for services the agency cannot provide internally. “Essentially, it’s a pass through grant,” Singer said, and confirmed to commissioners that the program serves youth involved with the juvenile justice system and is “completely funded by DJS — 0 dollar county match.”

The board moved to approve the submission and acceptance of the grant and voted in favor. The motion was made and seconded during the meeting and carried by voice vote.

Why it matters: The Youth and Family Engagement Diversion program funds community-based case management and behavioral health services for justice-involved youth. County staff said the grant augments services already provided by CCYSB and serves as a bridge between DJS needs and community provider capacity.

Implementation: County staff identified the program as an existing line managed through the Local Management Board, and said the funding allows CCYSB to continue providing case management and behavioral health supports to eligible youth without requiring county general funds.

Ending: Staff will submit the FY '26 application and accept the award if offered, reporting back to the board as required by grant conditions.