First Place has in place a strong performance management system to track the outcomes its youth served attain. In 2010, 97% of youth avoided involvement with the justice system, 75% obtained employment, 73% exited the program with a high school diploma or GED, and 84% who entered the program with a high school diploma or GED enrolled in post-secondary education. Furthermore, after leaving the program, 89% of youth maintained stable housing. First Place recently launched an implementation study conducted by Public/Private Ventures to further strengthen the model and ensure it is implemented with fidelity across all sites. First Place expects this study will  prepare the organization for a rigorous, independent evaluation upon its completion.

Since 2007, the Foundation has invested $2.65 million in First Place for Youth. During the course of EMCF’s latest investment ($2 million over three years), First Place plans to serve 60 percent more youth annually, expand into Los Angeles, complete an implementation study and prepare for further rigorous evaluations, bolster its education and employment services, and strengthen its capacity to raise private and public funding.  

For more information about First Place for Youth, visit its website at www.firstplaceforyouth.org.