It has been an honor to serve as the Commission’s Chair this year and to have the fortunate opportunity to work alongside individuals within this organization who graciously volunteered their time, skills, and knowledge as we worked towards taking this Commission to new heights.

I am pleased to present the Commission’s Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2023. In addition to statistical data regarding juvenile interstate movement and fiscal priorities, this report represents the work of the Commission’s committees and regions to advance the priorities set forth in our Strategic Plan. The theme for the past year has been collaboration. It is a pleasure to share the results of these partnerships which exemplify the spirit of our Compact.

Committees and regions worked closely together to develop best practices, toolkits, training materials, resources, and rule amendment proposals. The ICJ Bench Book for Judges and Court Personnel was revised to serve as a valuable resource for ICJ offices and courts. Live ICJ trainings were revitalized with the Wednesday Workshops series. Online courses were updated to provide engaging learning experiences for ICJ offices throughout the county. The Rules Committee continued their efforts to analyze and draft proposals for clarification and consistency of the ICJ Rules while providing guidance and assistance to committees and regions with their rule proposals. We also worked to maintain and expand justice and social service systems partnerships.

This year, the Commission collaborated to expand our understanding and utilization of implementation science and information technology. A new Proactive Monitoring Program was launched to aid ICJ offices in overseeing their states’ daily operations. States now have the power to instantly visualize case data to help improve outcomes for juveniles. In addition, we launched UNITY enhancements to improve our nationwide data management system. The Finance Committee monitored the budget to help ensure that these activities had the appropriate funds to be carried out.

This was also the first year for the Racial Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee who came out of the gate ready to go. The Committee distributed DEI resources to ICJ offices, developed a best practice guide, and began an analysis of the ICJ Rules and practices to ensure racial diversity and equitable outcomes and experiences for all juveniles served by the Compact and all parties involved with the Compact.

Since the first Annual Business Meeting in 2008, the Commission has continued to evolve, define, and bring the Compact to the forefront of juvenile justice. During these 15 years, we have engaged with our community partners, stakeholders, ex officio members, and courts, as we worked together to embody the Commission’s mission, vision, and values. The Commission would not have achieved all that we have without the assistance, guidance, and support of the National Office staff. I am truly humbled and proud to be a part of this Commission and work among a group of amazing individuals who give their all to help improve the lives of juveniles, their families, and their communities. On behalf of the Executive Committee, thank you for all that you do.

Nina Belli, Commission Chairperson