Since originating in 1972 as a Multnomah County demonstration project to provide residential care for adolescent substance abusers who were largely homeless, Janus Youth Programs has provided a second chance for youth from high risk environments - many of whom have no other resources, no other family. Today, Janus Youth Programs has grown to become one of the largest nonprofits in the Northwest operating 20 different programs that span Oregon and Washington. Many Janus programs are regarded as best practice models and have been replicated both in and out of the United States.
Janus Youth Programs serves over 6,000 children, youth and families each year in addition to completing nearly 30,000 face-to-face contacts with runaway and homeless youth through an all-volunteer street outreach program on the streets every night of the year. Included in the 20 programs provided:
- Runaway and homeless youth services in Oregon and Washington that provide street outreach, 24-hour access and assessment, emergency and short-term shelter, family reunification, continued school support, transitional housing and independent living services
- Residential and shelter services for youth in custody of the Oregon Youth Authority and emotionally disturbed and neglected youth in Oregon's Department of Human Services' child welfare system
- Alternative education for youth failing in traditional classroom settings
- A scholarship program helping former clients pursue higher education or vocational/technical training
- A detention program in collaboration with the Clatsop County Juvenile Department
- A 56,000 square foot urban agriculture program focused on hunger reduction, employment and economic independence
Matrix Networks supports JANUS YOUTH PROGRAMS.
Matrix Networks Participated in the 2007 Janus Youth Golf Tournament
Alan McLean makes a hole in 1.
