The STEM Community Alliance Program (STEMCAP) forges novel connections through inquiry-based and interactive STEM programming to put scientists, artists, and community educators inside Youth-In-Custody (YIC) facilities. By creating opportunities for interactions among science-engaged community members and YIC students, we highlight common ground for learning by all participants. Our program offers topical science presentations, art-science workshops, and experiential conservation projects. We help empower Youth-In-Custody by demonstrating ways they can contribute to their community while in the custody of the state and into the future.