JRA Mentor Program Region Three (Lacey)

Lacey, WA

"A Mentor is a trusted adult, role model and encourager to youth in the Juvenile Justice System. Mentors assist youth to set and fulfill goals they have set for their education or vocation and for a substance and crime-free lifestyle. We believe mentors empower youth by helping them recognize their unique qualities and talents. Mentors connect with youth and convey the message, ""You are worth my time and effort"". Mentors encourage youth by sharing their personal goals, values and experiences. Our mentors are asked to make a one year commitment and are required to do the following; be at least 21 years of age, complete an application process, consent to a Washington State Patrol background check, complete mentor training. We also ask that they commit to meet their youth monthly while they are in a juvenile facility. Our mentors are asked to attend quarterly meetings to enhance skills in working with youth. Once the youth returns into the community, our mentors meet with the youth as much as possible. We serve the following counties:

Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Pierce, Kitsap, Clallam, Jefferson, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, Skamania, Thurston, Wahkaikum. 

Organization Details
Address
Sleater-Kinney S.E., Suite “R” Lacey, WA 98504
Phone
(360) 486-2232, harrimw@dshs.wa.gov

Website

http://dshs.wa.gov/jra

Program Emphasis

Education, Emotional Growth, Job Preparation, Substance Abuse, Teen Pregnancy,

Mentoring Location

Other specified site,

Mentee Age Range

10 to 14 years old, 15 to 19 years old,

No Distance Is Too Far

cynthia_williams_and_starcia.jpg
Starcia and Cindy, DSHS JRA Region Six

Starcia and Cindy have been matched for just over a year. It is as if they were destined to meet. They share a birthday and a propensity for fits of giggles and laughter. When they met Starcia was living in Snoqualmie however she has since relocated to Spokane. Cindy travels to Spokane, at her own expense once a month to see Starcia. Between face-to-face visits they stay connected by phone and writing letters. Since being matched with Cindy Starcia has shown huge personal growth and is currently awaiting acceptance letters from several colleges.