Office of Juvenile Affairs Achieves Hope Certification

The Science of Hope

The Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) has been certified as a Hope-Centered Organization under the Hope-Centered and Trauma-Informed (HCTI) model, becoming the second agency nationwide to earn this distinction. This certification acknowledges OJA's adherence to six essential indicators that integrate the Science of Hope into leadership, policies, and practices, emphasizing well-being and the use of hope metrics for evaluation.

Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs offers hope.

OJA has committed to training all leadership members in the Science of Hope, including Executive Director Timothy Tardibono, in the Hope Navigator model. Dr. Chan Hellman, director of the Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma, commended this initiative, stating, "We are proud of OJA but specifically want to highlight your leadership and commitment to advancing hope into the culture of OJA. This is demonstrated through so many forms of evidence, but what stands out for me was your engagement in becoming a Hope Navigator. We are proud to see OJA emerge as the national leader in the Science of Hope."

Beyond leadership training, OJA offers the Science of Hope in group settings to the youth it serves, underscoring its dedication to the health and well-being of Oklahoma's youth.

“Hope is more than just a wish. Studies tell us that hope drives well-being now and in the future. Hope and well-being are indispensable factors for OJA’s focus on developing Oklahoma’s most important natural resource, our youth and families,” reflects OJA’s Executive Director Timothy Tardibono.

OJA received formal recognition and certification at the Oklahoma Hope Summit for Hope Navigators on Oct. 15, 2025.

About the Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs:

OJA provides prevention, education, and treatment services for youth and their families, aiming to reduce juvenile delinquency and promote public safety through evidence-based practices.