The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice has inaugurated the Monarch Youth Center in Lincoln, marking a significant step forward in youth rehabilitation. The facility accommodates up to 30 residents and provides comprehensive services, including educational programs, mental health support, and vocational training aimed at helping justice-involved youth re-enter society successfully. The center has also become a source of local economic growth, generating over 90 new jobs. Officials are actively seeking to build lasting partnerships with community organizations to enhance support networks and ensure the long-term success of both the youth and the surrounding community.
“The opening of Monarch Youth Center is an exciting, concrete step toward improving the quality of life for central Illinois’ most vulnerable youth,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. “One of the primary goals of my office’s Justice, Equity, and Opportunity initiative is to utilize restorative, inclusive, and cutting-edge practices and programs to transform Illinois’ criminal legal system. Monarch Youth Center will do just that, by giving youth who will reenter society a toolbox full of what they need to thrive.”
“The Monarch Youth Center was designed with unique therapeutic and rehabilitative spaces,” said Robert Vickery, acting director of IDJJ. “Monarch has ample natural light, outdoor green spaces, bright colors, and family friendly spaces. It was designed with youth and staff input to reflect best practices in trauma informed care.”
The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) was created by statute in 2006 with the mandate of safely housing and rehabilitating youth committed to its custody. The mission of IDJJ is to promote community safety and positive youth outcomes by building youth skills and strengthening families.
“The new Monarch Youth Center in Lincoln represents an important investment in our community,” said State Senator Sally Turner (R-Beason). “This facility will bring good jobs and economic growth to our region, while also providing a structured environment that helps young people get back on track.”
Community partnerships and volunteers are also being sought for the new youth center. “We welcome local non-profit and faith-based organizations who wish to partner with us in our work to rehabilitate youth,” said Tyrie Fluker, superintendent of Monarch Youth Center. “Volunteers are essential to the work we do.” Fluker noted that inquiries regarding volunteering at Monarch Youth Center can be directed to Assistant Superintendent of Programs Andre Brown at [email protected].
Construction and renovations at Monarch Youth Center began the summer of 2023. “The town of Lincoln has been an incredible partner throughout the entire process,” said Bill Peyton, IDJJ Project Manager for Monarch Youth Center. “From Mayor Welch, to the fire and police chiefs, to the Lincoln Park District, IDJJ is incredibly grateful for the ongoing help and cooperation from local officials.”
Funding and oversight for the construction and renovations of Monarch Youth Center came from the Illinois Capital Development Board. “The Monarch Youth Center’s design prioritizes healing and support,” said TJ Edwards, executive director of the Illinois Capital Development Board. “We were able to reclaim a long-vacant site to create a facility where youth can stay connected to their communities, surrounded by trauma-informed environments.”
“The Monarch Youth Center is a result of strong collaboration with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, our City Council, and Department Heads,” said Tracy Welch, mayor of Lincoln. “This facility brings structure and second chances, supports families, and grows our local economy. It’s a milestone achievement for Lincoln.”
