In juvenile diversion programs, youths who have been formally apprehended for an offense are given the opportunity to become involved in appropriate treatment programs in lieu of formal adjudication in the juvenile justice system. Diversion programs are intended to reduce recidivism, save money, free juvenile justice personnel to focus on serious cases, and prevent juveniles from suffering the embarassment and stigma of formal adjudication. Generally, diversion is applied to youth who do not need the supervision and sanctions of the juvenile justice system. Some types of juvenile diversion programs are police probationary supervision, counseling treatment, education and work, supervision and services by community volunteers, socially constructive recreation, and diversified programs. This article concludes with a discussion of the purpose and development of youth aid panels, which are composed of community members who select youth for diversion, coordinate the development of a broad range of diversion programs, and match youth to appropriate programs. 52 notes and 13-item bibliography.