Juvenile Justice

Juvenile Justice Success Stories in Alaska

Success Story

In fall 2007, Nome Youth Facility enrolled its first resident into the program for transitioning juveniles. She was a 17-year-old female and her performance has all the makings of a true success story. Once in the program she successfully completed her GED, scoring high in all areas. She held a paid job as laundry worker in the facility for more than five months. She enrolled in college classes at University of Alaska Fairbanks Northwest campus, applied for scholarships and was awarded a full scholarship.

She worked closely with our foster grandparent in the kitchen, learning to cook and bake. During the holidays she made Christmas cookies for residents. She became the designated baker for resident birthday cakes and the occasional treat of cinnamon rolls. She attended monthly baking/cooking classes at the university, sponsored by the University Extension program, and she took part in their gardening class in early spring. She attended weekly Alcoholics Anonymous meetings with a community volunteer/pass partner.

The division referred her to the Kawerak Vocational Rehabilitation specialist, which led to extensive services including: weekly counseling; resume writing; job application assistance; clothing allowance to purchase appropriate job  interview and work clothing; financial assistance in paying a District Court fine; driver’s education assistance; and a part-time job (four hours a day five days per week) as a receptionist at Kawerak. She attended all therapeutic groups the facility offered, and she was a regular participant in community service projects. She committed to fitness and, besides the daily workout that all residents must participate in, she was a regular at the Recreation Center where she participated through our “Staff as Mentors” program, completing a vigorous routine of aerobic exercise, stretching and weight lifting.

She earned her Live Strong bracelet, consisting of a variety of life skills — all with a focus on living a positive life style. Though she entered the facility a troubled teen, she left as successful young lady building confidence daily. With that confidence, she found self-esteem. Before she left in May she was featured at our Citizen’s Advisory Board meeting where she impressed our board by telling her success story.