About
Juvenile Court Book Club offers monthly Book Club discussions, one-on-one tutoring, independent reading libraries, and college scholarship awards. It also coordinates author visits, book signings, visiting performers, speakers, film screenings, and field trips.
Programs
- Book Club — students in juvenile detention facilities; youth who are wards of the Juvenile Court · once a month; weekdays at 10 a.m. or 12 p.m.; about an hour
- Tutoring — students who need individually-tailored academic support · weekdays from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.; two evenings a week from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- One-on-One Tutoring Program — students in the S.A.F.E. Program in La Mesa and Vista, CA and at the Girls Rehabilitation Center (now called Urban Camp-Girls)
At a glance
- Ages: 14–18 years old
- General schedule: Book Club meetings are scheduled once a month at each program. Tutoring opportunities are from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays and two evenings a week from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The SAFE program has a bi-monthly schedule being put together.
About the provider
The program has operated since 1996. It works with teachers, Probation staff, and other employees in the Juvenile Court and Community Schools. It has received the "Outstanding Program for Youth" award from the San Diego Juvenile Justice Commission, the 2015 "Distinguished Organization" Service Award from the San Diego County Bar Association, and the 2011 "Celebrate Literacy Award" from the Greater San Diego Reading Association.
Volunteers work inside detention facilities and must undergo a Volunteers In Probation background clearance. Volunteers do not need teaching experience for the Tutoring Program and will receive support and training. Volunteers are needed to lead monthly Book Club meetings and as tutors.
What families say
“I really think that books get peoples' minds off negative thoughts and keeps them into positive thinking...” — Kenia M.
“I think that the books are intriguing. They are all books I have never heard of. It is nice to be learning about new things when I am locked up.” — Andrea G.
“My most favorite one was a book called Sold. I actually took the book home and showed my family. My mom actually read it and she liked it as well… My favorite part about book club is how we all get to sit in a circle and actually share about the books and not being judged on our opinions.” — Leah A.
Last updated September 19, 2026.
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