As autumn leaves fall and farmers gather crops, the harvest begins and the Court Appointed Youth Advocate Program (CAYA) is recruiting farmers of its own to sow and harvest seeds of hope in LaPorte County youth.
I am a CAYA volunteer. I’ve worked two years with the program that mentors juveniles who have been adjudicated delinquent. CAYA’s goals include reducing recidivism and engaging individualized ways to provide positive impact on youth who, at the discretion of the Magistrate, would benefit from program intervention.
I mentored one youth who successfully completed probation. Together we made progress with education through school counselor meetings, better attendance, improved assignment completion, and academic planning to ensure on-time high school graduation. Along the way, we window-shopped, picnicked and had many great discussions.
Working in any role to make a difference can be challenging so I voiced my concerns to CAYA Director Brenda Stellema who said, “We’re planting seeds.” I keep this analogy in mind as a CAYA mentor. We may not see immediate results of our work but I’m confident I’m part of the planting process in the life a youth.
I have trouble keeping houseplants alive, but I enjoy kids and know they are the future of our community as well as our country and our world. Cultivating relationships with other volunteers and community leaders at events is fun. But most rewarding for me is the fact that I stepped out of my comfort zone with a desire to make a difference; and, the connection with a youth that results in a smile is priceless. While implementing change is process, I’m confident that at least I tilled the soil; that is: encouraged my youth and impacted her self-worth.
Our youth are a precious harvest; won’t you join me in sowing seeds of hope. For more information, please call 219.324.3385.