Asad truism of our court system is that juvenile offenders often become adult offenders. Leaders in Forsyth County are incorporating a national program, Reclaiming Futures, that aims to break that cycle by getting the offenders off alcohol and drugs. With public support, this program could work -- and improve our community in the process.
As many as 67 percent of young people involved in the juvenile-justice system also have a substance-abuse problem. Some were drunk or high when they committed crimes. Others were arrested for drug or alcohol offenses. Reclaiming Futures, started with money from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, aims to ensure that the young offenders get the treatment they need. "We want to get at the cause," said Karen McNeil-Miller of the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust, which is financially supporting the local initiative and five more across North Carolina with $1.8 million.
Chief District Judge William Reingold, who is overseeing the project, said that "if we have any hope that they (juvenile offenders) will learn from their mistakes, punishment can't be the only answer."
The program wants each of the hundreds of juveniles who come through the local system each year to be assessed for substance abuse and mental-health problems, and, if needed, to be referred to treatment. Juvenile-court officials are using an assessment specifically designed for young people, the Journal's Michael Hewlett reported.
"We know that what works for adults doesn't necessarily work for teens," said Mina Cook, the director of the local project.
The problems that juvenile offenders experience didn't happen overnight, and they won't be solved overnight, Reingold said. Community support, including mentors, is crucial in keeping these young people from reverting to bad habits, he said. So is engaging the families of the youths, and keeping the youths in school. Most important, Reingold said, is making sure that the support for the young people continues long after they leave the juvenile-justice system.
Many of us could offer that assistance, whether in the form of mentoring or something else. There is a feeling of accomplishment that comes from making a difference in a young person's life -- and in working to better the community we share.
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