Performance-Based Contracting : Case Study

Redirection Project - A Performance-Based Contract in Action
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice

The issue. Faced with budget cuts and high teen violence rates, the state of Florida needed a new program that would turn at-risk youth around.

The solution. In 2004, the Florida Legislature and Department of Juvenile Justice worked with Evidence-Based Associates and local judiciary channels to create Redirection. Focused on developing social competency skills and improving family involvement, Redirection's protocols were based on two nationally recognized, empirically-grounded intervention programs for at-risk juveniles, Functional Family Therapy and Multisystemic Therapy.

The results. Redirection has helped thousands of youth break destructive behavior patterns, avoid incarceration, realize self-worth and become productive citizens. Eighty-nine percent did not have a new law violation while in treatment, and 70 percent were not adjudicated or convicted of a new violation within one year of completing the program. By lowering juvenile incarceration rates, avoiding residential placement and reducing subsequent violations, Redirection has saved Florida taxpayers millions of dollars.

Learn more about the Redirection project, an Evidence-Based Associates' performance-based contract.