TIONESTA, Pa. (EYT) – Taylor Diversion Programs (TDP) is a residential, independent living program for at-risk youth ages 14-21, located in Tionesta.

The facility was the recipient of the 2016 Residential Program of the Year Award presented by the Pennsylvania Juvenile Court Judges Commission (JCJC) in November of 2016. It was awarded at the JCJC and PA Council of Chief Juvenile Probation Officers 36th Annual Program in Harrisburg.

Michael Cummings, TDP Owner/President, humbly and graciously accepted the award, noting that without the assistance of his wife, Debra, also TDP Owner/Vice President and the many other individuals who have contributed to the success of TDP, this award would not have been possible. Among the existing 2,000 juvenile residential programs in the state, TDP’s recognition for this honor is paramount in that the program is merely three years old and one of the “newest” residential programs in the state.

Located along the scenic Allegheny River, the TDP program is designed, modeled, and theoretically based on social bond/control theory, while clinically rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Real life situations and experiences are provided for youth to test and assess their progress in the safest and most non-threatening way possible. The program is small and focused on the relational aspects of working together. To that end, TDP believes that good, solid programming begins and ends with healthy relationships.

Youth attending TDP have opportunities to do any or all of the following: attend TDP’s private academic school, Lighthouse Island Academy (grades 9-12); prepare to live independently while participating in TDP/PACTT work readiness program, developing work readiness skills and work experiences in the community; earn certifications in ServSafe, Food Handling, American Hotel and Lodging, OSHA 10, CPR, and Health and Wellness training; attend college/trade school; and/or be gainfully employed.

Additionally, a wide range of nature based/recreational activities such as archery, fly fishing, leather crafting, and GPS tracking are available.

Youth may attend church if desired and have opportunities to be involved in the local Lion’s Club or community activities deemed appropriate.