The Mentoring Center is using its expertise to help the Ohio Department of Youth Services (ODYS) create a “small group” mentoring project for released youth returning to their home communities.
The Mentoring Center is providing program design and training for DYS staff, Americorps members and indirectly, for mentors who will serve in eight sites statewide. The goal is to serve up to 200 youth who are 90% boys and 10% girls, ages 12-20.
At two conferences to date, parole officers and other DYS staff have been coached in key mentoring concepts and relationship development as well as learning about key structural elements for quality programs. The Center has also provided guidance on group dynamics, suggested activities and simulations; discussion topics and guidelines for involving youth and community resources.
As the geographically-dispersed programs further develop, the Mentoring Center expects to meet with staff, Americorps members and mentors to help respond to challenges and help create successful programs that enable youth to avoid further contact with the law while gaining skills for successful lives.
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