SAN FRANCISCO – This week, the San Francisco Juvenile Probation Department (JPD) proudly celebrated Probation Services Week 2025 by honoring the vital, compassionate, and often unsung work of its dedicated professionals who serve youth and young adults in the juvenile justice system.

With a mix of history, art, and camaraderie, the week’s events showcased the department’s deep roots in San Francisco and its ongoing commitment to safe, rehabilitative, and community-centered services.

One of the week’s highlights was a compelling historical presentation titled “How JPD Shaped SF,” delivered by JPD team member and department historian Dan Kelly. The presentation traced the department’s origins back to the early 1900s, offering powerful context on the city’s living conditions, the evolution of juvenile justice, and the critical role Juvenile Probation Officers played during the 1906 Great Earthquake.

“It was incredible to see how deeply woven our department is into the fabric of San Francisco’s history,” said one attendee. “The fact that the City’s first Juvenile Probation Chief was a woman—and that it took over 100 years for another woman to serve in that role—is a powerful reminder of our legacy and the progress we’re still making.”

The week also featured a variety of engaging staff events, including the unveiling of a vibrant collaborative art installation, a delicious Early Bird Breakfast catered by Blackberry Soul, and the return of the spirited JPD Tournament. Staff across divisions faced off in games like Free Throws, Giant Jenga, and “Minute to Win It”—earning points, bragging rights, and lots of laughs and bonding along the way.

“Everyone came to play—this was the most competitive game of Jenga I’ve ever witnessed!” said a staff member. “Who knew teamwork and balance could be this intense?”

While the activities sparked healthy competition and plenty of fun, they also served as a reminder of the teamwork and dedication required in JPD’s day-to-day mission: helping youth and young adults in the juvenile justice system find safer, healthier paths forward.

As Probation Services Week comes to a close, JPD celebrates not only its history but also its probation professionals who show up every day with commitment, compassion, and purpose.

“This week was about more than just games and good food—it was about honoring the work we do and the values we stand for,” said Chief Probation Officer Katherine Miller. “Our team is deeply committed to community safety, rehabilitation, and hope. That’s what we’re lifting up this week.”