Giving our youth a voice, empowering their future, allowing them to be heard. Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta, Deputy Anthony Galeno, and Investigator Brian Shanely joined the founder of Building Bridges Initiative, Isabel Lopez, Director of YAP (Youth Advocate Programs), Jorge Retamar, and four outstanding youth participants at the Division of Criminal Justice Services 2026 Youth Justice Conference in Albany, NY, on Thursday, May 21st, 2026.
Our panel, “Bridging the Divide: Practical Strategies to Strengthen Youth and Law Enforcement Trust,” reflected the heart of our work. The focus of our panel was four young men from the City of Newburgh, who embraced the opportunity to speak and have their voices heard. They emphasized that young people must be included in the conversations shaping their lives and communities, and addressed the needs of young people today.
Sheriff Arteta added, “We are committed to investing in our young people and creating opportunities that help them thrive. We will continue to create and participate in programs and provide resources to strengthen local efforts to guide youth toward productive and successful futures. I am proud of these 4 young men for their courage and engaging in these powerful discussions to ensure their future is bright!”
Isabel Lopez stated, “As a former police officer and the founder of the Building Bridges Initiative, I understand firsthand the importance of creating safe and honest spaces where youth and law enforcement can build trust, have difficult conversations, and see one another beyond uniforms, assumptions, and past experiences. Our partnership with Sheriff Arteta and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office has been instrumental in bringing this mission to life. I am grateful for their commitment and inspired by the youth who continue to show up, speak up, and remind us why this work matters.”
“We are incredibly grateful to the Building Bridges Initiative, Sheriff Paul Arteta, and the dedicated deputies who continue to invest their time, energy, and belief in the young people we serve through Project RISE by Youth Advocate Programs Inc. The 2026 Juvenile Justice Conference in Albany, NY, provided a unique opportunity for our youth to engage with leaders, advocates, and professionals who are working to create positive change across New York State. Having our youth present at the conference was important because it allowed them to see firsthand
that their voices matter and that they can play an active role in shaping their futures and their communities. Experiences like this help build confidence, expand perspectives, and inspire young people to recognize their own potential. Our partnership with the Sheriff’s Office has been invaluable. Through collaboration, mentorship, and meaningful engagement, Sheriff Arteta and his deputies have helped break down barriers, build trust, and demonstrate the power of positive relationships between law enforcement and youth. This partnership continues to show our young people that they are supported, valued, and capable of achieving great things. We are proud of the progress our youth have made and thankful for community partners who share our commitment to creating opportunities, fostering hope, and empowering the next generation. Together, we are building stronger connections, safer communities, and brighter futures for the youth we serve.” “Together We Rise”
This year’s conference theme, “Reimagining Justice: Equity, Healing, and Youth at the Center,” reflected the truth that young people need to be part of the conversations shaping their futures, rather than having programs built around them. Collaboration and support are key to creating systems that matter, and this was about having our young people be active participants in shaping the future right now.
