Purposeful Partnership Program for Youth

Purposeful Partnership Program

ICM’s Purposeful Partnership Program (PPP) introduces youth participants to foundational restorative practices (Tier I) as a proactive approach to cultivating positive relationships and creating healthier environments within themselves and their families, schools, communities, and peer groups. Participants learn to incorporate these methods into their daily lives through engaging workshops, experiential learning, networking events, and collaborative projects. These activities foster conflict resolution, trust building, and strong community connections.
PPP’s goal is to guide youth in adopting restorative practices as a lifestyle, encouraging them to lead by example in creating safe, supportive, and inclusive spaces. Participants develop skills—like active listening, conflict resolution, leadership, conducting outreach, and facilitating—to promote a culture of accountability, respect, and peace. Participants become advocates for lasting change as they demonstrate the power of restorative practices methods in transforming relationships and community dynamics.

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"My first time with ICM was in the PPP program. It felt like a safe space where I could express myself and I could talk about the trauma I’ve been through. Being from Brownsville, it made me feel like I wasn’t the only one who has experienced some of these things in my community."

- PPP Participant, 18

Next Cohort: April 2025

Healing circles, restorative practices training, community events, and youth-led community initiatives. Regular activities include leadership workshops, family-oriented activities, etiquette classes, creative arts and storytelling events, and structured public forums. We will also host guest helping professionals, conduct community assessments, go on trips, lead cleanup and revitalization initiatives, collaboratively plan for future community projects, and have a graduation event.

Program Goals:

The overall outcome that ICM is aiming to achieve is ending mass incarceration of NYC residents and making healing accessible for all people. The specific measurable outcomes of PPP are to:

Promote safety and fun in public spaces.
Expand access to adequate services for all residents.
Teach participants effective healing methods and coping skills.
Retain 95% of participants.
Reduce gun violence in New York City by 2024.
Improve mental health outcomes for all participants.
Help 85% of participants find education or employment within 90 days; and
Strengthen community trust and engagement.