Alternatives' portfolio of services encompasses:

Leadership Development- cultivating current and future leaders who have the self-esteem and motivation to make positive contributions to their communities. Alternatives' youth leadership groups undertake research and community service initiatives, philanthropic projects, and special events that put youth in the driver's seat, identifying problems and developing their own solutions.

Academic Enrichment- giving youth tools, attitudes and behaviors that promote academic success. We provide youth with exciting and creative learning environments, support their progress with after-school tutoring, introduce them to new technologies that bridge the Digital Divide, and help them find education-focused alternatives to school suspensions and the juvenile justice system.

Counseling- encouraging youth to make healthy choices, develop healthy relationships with family members, peers and neighbors, and acquire valuable skills that support productive lifestyles. Using research-based therapeutic models, Alternatives provides safe, nurturing environments that help young people achieve personal goals, explore and prepare for careers, and improve interaction at home, work and school.

Violence & Substance Abuse Prevention- helping youth develop communication and decision-making skills and connecting them with community resources that help stop violence and substance abuse in our schools and neighborhoods. Alternatives' innovative and evidence-based approaches address 14 of 17 identified risk factors for youth likely to engage in violent and illegal behavior. Programs include conflict resolution groups, peer juries and arts initiatives that encourage youth to explore their talents in dance, circus, and computer arts.

As a result:
- Youth are in safe environments
- Youth increase their self-esteem
- Youth make healthy choices about their future
- Youth and families communicate better

Alternatives programs and services are:
- Offered at little or no charge
- Available in Spanish
- At various collaborative organizations throughout the community