The McCullum Youth Court Mentor Project

Description

McCullum Youth Court (MYC) is a youth-driven, youth-focused diversion program for first time Juvenile Offenders. Offenders are represented by youth attorneys who have been trained in prosecution and defense; cases are tried by peer juries. Sentences are designed to hold youth accountable in a meaningful, innovative, and rehabilitative manner. Sentences include components like, conflict resolution seminars, jury duty, anger management workshops, community service drug and alcohol counseling or other related counseling. The staff works closely with offenders and their families to provide the mist effective and appropriate services. MYC serves as both a court process that validates a stepping stone for aspiring youth attorneys, and provides youth volunteers the opportunity to function in positions of responsibility and power. Mentoring The MYC mentor project was launched in January 2001 to address the need for continued support and positive adult role models in the lives of youth involved in the Juvenile Justice System. MYC mentoring cultivates positive youth development by connecting youth with committed adults who work one on one to provide support, guidance and concrete help to young people. Adults help youth to identify and use their strengths as well as develop healthy behaviors, attitudes and ambitions.