JP3 Offers Opportunities to Help At-Risk Youth
The supportive relationship formed between a mentor and mentee is sometimes immediate. More often than not, it is long-term and means benefits for both.
Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Evelyn McLean created such a program when she noticed a common thread in truancy cases. The Judge says, “It wasn’t something we planned. We realized these kids were having trouble connecting with someone at school. For an at-risk teen, it only takes one to make a difference.”
Fortunately, mentor Jacob was already volunteering in the court in other capacities, saw the benefits, and asked the Judge if they could formalize the program. He says, “This allowed us to schedule meetings and set goals. Being able to stay in contact, talk about needs and resources put us to the next level of success with the kids.”
MENTORS NEEDED
The Judge explains the high demand for mentors comes from the one-to-one relationship and the many kids in need, “There is an overwhelming number of juveniles who need a positive adult role model and I don’t like having to choose which kids can have a mentor.”
THE PROGRAM
Mentors and mentees meet weekly to encourage, listen, and share sound advice. Nora Rodriguez oversees the program and says, “Mentors set goals for the kids—catching up with school work or family, and giving them options to push forward. We want them to not just get by but thrive.”
Jacob says he enjoys working with kids who are at-risk because of truancy. “In 2019 and 2020, we had many kids who were on the road to graduation but wanted to coast. They just need that little bit of motivation and encouragement to get them to the finish line.”
BE A MENTOR
Nora adds that mentoring is for everyone. “Anyone with a desire to help youth at risk, and passion to connect is welcome. It’s also important to be patient and understanding because, after all, these are kids with challenges and they aren’t always reliable. One of the things the mentor helps with is making sure kids comply with orders and show up for hearings so we can make sure they are staying on track.” Jacob agrees; “You don’t have to be someone in the justice system, or a person who was previously at risk to identify with a kid. Everyone has something to offer.”
Judge McLean creates individualized programs for each person, with the goal of getting them through their court proceedings. “What I love to see,” she says, “while there is no formal ‘graduation’ from the program, the relationships sometimes continue after court, and strengthen both people on a continuing basis.”
Rafael is proof-positive that mentoring makes the difference. Having built a solid relationship with Jacob, he is committed to staying with JP3 as a mentor himself.
New mentors are needed as the new school year approaches (or any time), and interested adults can contact Nora at 512-943-1570.