BANGOR – Penquis Community Action Program recently received a grant from the Maine Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Substance Abuse to fund Back on Track, a program that helps youth who have been expelled or suspended from school, or who are at risk of suspension or expulsion. The program teaches youth to take responsibility for their actions, avoid negative behaviors and successfully continue their education.

Back on Track uses mediation, individualized goal setting, family support services and community service activities to positively affect youth. It involves students, their families, school officials and community juvenile corrections officers to maximize success. Schools have reported positive outcome resulting from the program, including improved student behavior and attitudes and increased parent involvement.

Tamar Mathieu, division manager at Penquis CAP, said the program works because it is based on effective practices identified by researchers in the restorative justice, prevention and education fields.

According to Mathieu, the program builds youth assets, or protective factors, that increase healthful choices and lead to healthful development.

Referrals to the program are accepted from schools in Penobscot and Piscataquis counties and may be made by calling (888) 497-3500.

The $47,078 grant from the Maine Office of Substance Abuse funds 94 percent of program costs.