06/15/2026
LinkedIn for Nonprofits
Addressing Criminogenic Needs Through Collaboration: The Operation New Hope Model
By Russell Degnan
In communities across our nation, youth and families face complex challenges that, if left unaddressed, can increase the likelihood of justice system involvement. At Operation New Hope (ONH), we recognize that reducing recidivism and building pathways to opportunity requires more than isolated services it demands a comprehensive, collaborative approach grounded in evidence-based practices.
Central to our work is the understanding of criminogenic needs, the dynamic and static factors associated with criminal behavior. While static factors such as age, upbringing, or criminal history cannot be changed, dynamic factors can be addressed with the right interventions, support systems, and opportunities for growth. This is where ONH focuses its energy on the factors we can change, together.
The Power of Addressing Dynamic Criminogenic Needs
Research consistently identifies eight dynamic criminogenic risk factors, with the first four being the most influential:
1. Antisocial personality or temperament
2. Antisocial cognition
3. Antisocial companions
4. Family and/or marital stressors
The remaining factors substance abuse, lack of employment, lack of education, and lack of pro-social recreation, further shape outcomes and opportunity. At ONH, we address each of these areas through targeted programming, while recognizing one fundamental truth:
No single agency can meet all the needs of our youth, families, or communities alone.
A Collaborative Model for Lasting Change
Our approach is intentionally collaborative, integrating internal programming with a strong network of community partners. Together, we deliver a continuum of care that fosters personal growth, accountability, and long-term stability.
Here’s how ONH addresses each criminogenic factor:
1. Antisocial Personality or Temperament
We work to reshape how participants interpret the world and their role in it. Through our evidence-based curriculum, we guide individuals in developing healthier belief systems, realistic expectations, and a stronger sense of personal responsibility.
Collaborative Support: When deeper therapeutic intervention is needed, we partner with specialized providers to offer targeted counseling and behavioral therapies.
2. Antisocial Cognition
Negative thinking patterns often drive harmful behaviors. ONH creates a safe, structured space where youth and young adults can reflect, process, and grow.
Participants engage in workshops focused on:
• Stress management
• Self-worth and identity
• Forgiveness and accountability
• Making amends
Real-time learning through workforce development opportunities reinforces these lessons.
Collaborative Support: We work alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy providers to strengthen this transformation.
3. Antisocial Companions
Environment matters. Peer influence can either reinforce risk or inspire growth. ONH helps participants understand the impact of their social circles and make intentional choices.
Through storytelling, relationship-building modules, and guided discussions, we promote healthier peer engagement.
Collaborative Support: Community organizations help us create positive social environments through events, mentorship, and outings.
4. Family and/or Marital Stressors
Strong families build strong communities. When family dynamics are strained, risk factors increase.
ONH addresses this through:
• Group sessions
• Individual counseling
• Relationship-focused curriculum
Collaborative Support: We partner with behavioral health providers and family counseling organizations to reduce stressors and rebuild connections.
5. Substance Abuse
Substance use can amplify every other risk factor. Our goal is to help participants achieve and maintain a substance-free lifestyle.
We provide education on:
• Addiction and recovery
• Health and nutrition
• Coping strategies
Collaborative Support: Partnerships with organizations such as the TAY Center, Mary’s Mercy Village rehabilitation Center, sober living programs, and local recovery programs ensure continued support beyond our walls.
6. Lack of Employment
Employment is more than income, it’s identity, purpose, and structure.
ONH helps participants:
• Build job readiness skills
• Explore career pathways
• Connect with local employers
Collaborative Support: We work closely with San Bernardino County Workforce Development, School Districts and Charter Schools CTE programs, San Bernadino Community College District, and in-demand industries including local unions to create real employment opportunities.
7. Lack of Education
Education unlocks opportunity. We emphasize its importance at every stage.
Participants are supported in:
• Completing high school
• Enrolling in post-secondary education
• Accessing vocational training
Collaborative Support: Partnerships with Learn4Life Charter Concepts, Entrepreneur High School, adult schools, San Bernardino Community College District, San Bernardino Valley College, Crafton Hills College, Chaffey College, San Bernardino Workforce Development, and apprenticeship programs expand educational pathways for participants.
8. Lack of Pro-Social Leisure and Recreation
Positive recreation teaches teamwork, discipline, and social skills.
ONH provides:
• Structured activities
• Community events
• Experiential learning opportunities
Collaborative Support: Community partners help us deliver engaging, pro-social experiences that reinforce positive behaviors.
Moving Forward Together
At Operation New Hope, we understand that real change happens when systems work together. Addressing criminogenic needs is not about checking boxes, it’s about transforming lives through relationships, opportunity, and accountability.
Our collaborative model ensures that participants are not navigating their journey alone. Instead, they are supported by a network of organizations, mentors, educators, and employers committed to one shared goal:
Helping individuals build a future defined not by past circumstances, but by possibility, purpose, and hope.
As we continue this work, we invite community partners, stakeholders, and leaders to join us. Because when we align our efforts, we don’t just reduce risk, we build stronger, safer, more hopeful communities for everyone.
