The Cup of J.O.E. (Juvenile Outreach and Engagement) program at Camp Oakland is designed to support some of the most severely at-risk youth in the State of Michigan. These young individuals often come to us with significant challenges, including substance abuse, juvenile justice involvement, histories of abuse and neglect, and backgrounds shaped by generational poverty and familial criminal activity.

 The idea behind Cup of J.O.E. is simple but powerful: with a warm cup of coffee (or cocoa) and an open, honest conversation, we begin to uncover who these youth truly are—what drives them, what they've endured, and what they hope for their future. From there, we help them build a realistic, hopeful plan aimed at breaking cycles and creating meaningful change.

A cornerstone of the program is our weekly career workshop for youth in our LPC (Life Preparation Center) unit. Local business professionals visit to share their career journeys, offering insight, encouragement, and exposure to a variety of employment paths. But Cup of J.O.E. goes far beyond career talks.

We are now expanding the program by partnering with skilled trades professionals to provide hands-on training and real-world experience in areas like HVAC, welding, flooring installation, construction, carpentry, roofing, siding, and more. Youth will work side-by-side with professionals to help improve and repair buildings across Camp Oakland’s grounds—allowing them to see the daily progress of their efforts and take pride in their contributions.

The ultimate goal of the Cup of J.O.E Program is to equip these young people with the tools they need to make better choices, find a purpose, and become gainfully employed. Through positive relationships and career guidance, we aim to reduce their risk of entering the adult criminal justice system and increase their chances of living stable, productive lives once they return to their communities.