"Children are our greatest resource. I am driven by a need to help make sure their voices are heard, and our systems are designed to help them achieve and thrive, rather than exacerbate any problems they may encounter. I find strength in the passionate people I have the opportunity to work with, and the knowledge that we have no other choice but to succeed." Christine Henningsen
Nebraska Youth Advocates (NYA), led by Director Christine Henningsen, J.D., serves as a resource center to support policy and practice initiatives that advance juvenile justice reform to advance positive youth development and safer communities. Project goals encompass increasing juvenile defense skills, enhancing the attorney-client relationship, and amplifying youth voice within the system. Project activities include offering training to juvenile defense attorneys, technical assistance, legislative advocacy, and resource development. The resources made available to Nebraska attorneys and programs help to create a network of specialized juvenile defense attorneys across the state. The center also delivers specific research and technical assistance to policymakers and system stakeholders that is data-informed and evidence-based. NYA works collaboratively to improve system practices and outcomes for youth and families involved in the juvenile justice system.