Our Approach
Redemption
Redemption is a neuroplasticity and behavioral recalibration program for young Black males. The approach includes a trauma-informed, neuroscience-based residential model designed to rewire maladaptive behavioral patterns caused by chronic environmental stress and unaddressed trauma, which often mimic substance-induced neurochemical imbalances. Targeting youth ages 11 to 19, the program integrates bootcamp-style structure, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT/DBT, existential-humanistic approach), daily physical training, psychoeducation, and consistent clinical evaluations to promote emotional regulation, executive functioning, and long-term personal growth. Through staged phases such as Self-Awareness, Self-Discipline, and Self-Actualization, participants progress from stabilization to leadership readiness. Functional neuroplasticity is achieved by combining physiological regulation, cognitive reframing, and environmental consistency. Outcomes are measured at 30, 60, and 90 days, tracking therapeutic engagement, behavioral improvements, and academic or vocational preparation, with a long-term goal of holistic transformation and sustained community reintegration.
Organizational Structure
Philosophical Framework
• Grounded in neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and cultural responsiveness.
• Conceptualizes untreated trauma and chronic environmental stress as inducing neurochemical imbalance akin to substance abuse disorders.
• Uses neuroplasticity to rewire maladaptive cognitive-behavioral patterns.
Core Assumptions
• Trauma exposure (first and second hand) alters brain development, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.
• Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity are survival responses, not moral failings.
• Confrontation, when safely delivered by consistent, caring adults, can catalyze growth when paired with support and structure.
• Healing requires rhythm (physical routine), safety, community, agency, and therapeutic insight.
Program Structure
A. Entry Phase: Bootcamp (2–4 weeks)
• Purpose: Shock the system and initiate rewiring.
• Military structure: Early wake-ups, PT (physical training), no cell phones, uniform expectations.
• Psychoeducation on trauma, brain development, and responsibility.
• Introduction to breathing, mindfulness, and body regulation.
• Initial assessments: psychiatric, neurocognitive, biopsychosocial, and substance screening.
Program Structure
B. Core Program (3–6 months)
• Three advancing stages:
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Self-Awareness (Weeks 1–6): Focus on understanding trauma, reactions, and patterns.
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Self-Discipline (Weeks 7–12): Develop behavioral control and emotional regulation.
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Self-Actualization (Weeks 13–24): Leadership, creativity, mentorship, entrepreneurship.
• Weekly talk therapy (CBT and DBT approaches).
• Group therapy twice a week.
• Morning physical activity/workout (neuroregulation).
• Skill-building sessions: financial literacy, conflict resolution, and communication.
• Nutrition, sleep hygiene, and structured schedule.
Program Structure
C. Long-Term Residential Curriculum (Middle School to High School Graduation)
• Residents remain in the program until they graduate high school (ages 11–19).
• Tailored educational planning in partnership with local charter schools or on-site academic staff.
• Yearly mental health evaluations and progress reports.
• Advancement through program levels linked to age, maturity, and psychological readiness.
• Mentorship tracks for older youth supporting younger residents.
Program Structure
D. Exit & Follow-Up (30, 60, 90-day monitoring)
• Continued therapy check-ins.
• Peer leadership or ambassador track.
• Community service or job placement.
• Data collected at each interval to assess symptom reduction, behavior improvement, medication adherence, and life satisfaction.
Outcome Metrics and Benchmark Assessments
30-Day Benchmark
• Completion of intake assessments (psychiatric, cognitive, trauma inventory)
• Establishment of rapport with therapist and support staff
• Initial medication adherence (if prescribed)
• Baseline scoring on emotional regulation and impulse control
• Resident self-report tools (e.g., ACEs, Beck Youth Inventories, DERS)
Outcome Metrics and Benchmark Assessments
60-Day Benchmark
• Attendance in all required therapy sessions
• Consistent participation in physical training and daily routines
• Moderate reduction in behavioral incidents
• Academic engagement and structured learning outcomes
• Improved sleep, nutrition, and hygiene routines
Outcome Metrics and Benchmark Assessments
90-Day Benchmark
• Demonstrated integration of therapeutic skills (via therapist rating scale)
• Executive functioning gains (retested using neurocognitive tools like NIH Toolbox or BRIEF)
• Sustained medication compliance
• Participation in peer leadership or job readiness training
• Transitional planning for school, career, or community reentry
CyberYouth
CyberYouth is an integrated extension of Walton’s Academy that ensures all participants graduate with a cybersecurity certification and direct access to mentorship or internships in the tech field. Built on the Academy’s trauma-informed, neuroplasticity-based framework, the program introduces students ages 14 to 19 to digital literacy, ethical hacking, and information security through a structured curriculum aligned with certifications like CompTIA Security+, Google IT Support, and IT Fundamentals+. CyberYouth begins during the later phases of the core program and continues through high school graduation, combining hands-on labs, project-based learning, and personalized mentorship with cybersecurity professionals. Each student is matched with an internship or shadowing opportunity to ensure a viable career path or flexible tech side job post-graduation. CyberYouth transforms behavioral recalibration into economic empowerment by bridging therapeutic growth with real-world opportunity in a high-demand industry.