HERD Program

What is the HERD Program?

HERD (Human Empowerment Restorative Diversion) is a youth-centered diversion program designed to redirect young people away from formal disciplinary or juvenile justice involvement through offense-specific education, restorative practices, skill-building, and structured support. The program promotes accountability, personal growth, and community connection while addressing the root causes of behavior.

Who: Opportunity Youth in the Southeast Polk Community School District

Opportunity youth are children, adolescents, and young adults – typically spanning middle school through high school – who are disconnected from, or at risk of disengaging from, school, employment, or positive community supports due to a range of barriers (such as economic hardship, family instability, system involvement, or limited access to resources), and who demonstrate strong potential to thrive when provided with equitable opportunities, targeted resources, and supportive services.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to empower opportunity youth to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential by providing practical skill-building and coordinated services. Through a focus on social-emotional development, positive relationships, and access to meaningful opportunities, we strive to strengthen resilience and protective factors, improve decision-making, promote personal growth, and create pathways toward long-term success in school, work, and the community.

Vision Statement

We envision a community where all youth have the skills, support, and opportunities they need to thrive, make positive choices, and contribute meaningfully to their schools, families, and communities.

Core Values

Empowerment – We provide youth with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape their own futures.
Respect & Inclusion – We honor each youth’s unique experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives.
Resilience – We cultivate the ability to overcome challenges and adapt to change.
Collaboration – We work closely with families, schools, and community partners to support youth success.
Growth & Learning – We encourage continuous personal development, skill-building, and positive decision-making.
Equity – We strive to ensure all youth have access to opportunities and support regardless of circumstance.

Our Donors