STAY FLY

STAY FLY Program

The STAY FLY Program is a reentry program that develops social emotional learning (SEL) skills and knowledge of the law in transition aged youth (TAY). These young people, ages 18-21 (Santa Clara County) or 18-25 (Alameda County, San Mateo County, and Contra Costa County), receive support beginning in custody, and continue to be supported by FLY staff as they transition back into the community.

Program Description

Law Related Education: STAY FLY’s Law Related Education builds agency and self-advocacy in TAY through eight legal education workshops taught once a week for two hours, both in and out of custody. These workshops are led by trained FLY facilitators who aim to create a co-learning experience with the support of media, activities, and a range of educational materials. FLY captures youth interest with valuable information about the deep and complicated history of the justice system and how it affects their lives. With this understanding, youth find and discuss ways to navigate the system, while building their skills and ability to make better choices and influence systemic change.

Pro-Social Events and Civic Engagement Activities: Youth meet to support each other in group settings and create spaces for further personal growth with the help of FLY staff. These events and activities are youth-designed and align with ideas and interests that are unique to each group. These activities are meant to be both fun and engaging while helping young people find ways to improve the communities that matter most to them. (Events are conducted in accordance with local health orders, which may mean virtually.) 

Case Management & Coaching: FLY builds powerful relationships with youth to help them confront the challenges they face in transforming their lives. Each young person has the opportunity to have individualized case management through STAY FLY. This case management is intensive, one-on-one support that aims to help youth build a much larger support network throughout the community over the course of the program year.

• Download our STAY FLY Fact Sheet
• Our STAY FLY Case Study offers recommendations to improve justice systems practices based on FLY’s experiences supporting transition-aged youth ages 18-25
• Our TAY Policy Brief for legislators and administrators explains how to innovate their approach to responding to the needs of TAY caught up in the adult criminal justice system
• California Board of State and Community Corrections Transition-Age Youth (TAY) Pilot Program Evaluation Report

CONTACTS FOR MORE INFORMATION

Meredith McGrath
STAY FLY Lead Case Manager, Santa Clara County
Office (408) 263-2630
Cell     (408) 396-3411

Trisha Mah
Law and STAY FLY Programs Manager, Alameda County
Office (510) 244-4588 x2689
Cell   (510) 890-9133

Liz Martinez
STAY FLY Lead Case Manager, San Mateo County
Office (408) 263-2630
Cell   (650) 533-7650

Trevor Arceneaux
Director of Growth, Contra Costa County
Phone (510) 813-6691