The 4C Mentoring Program was founded in 1999 when several Clergy here in Seattle began to take a closer look at the number of youth of color in the juvenile justice system.
The 4C Coalition applied for the grant as a community partner with King County Superior Court Reclaiming Futures project. The grant projects are known as Reclaiming Futures. Additional information about Reclaiming Futures can be found at www.reclaimingfutures.com. Seattle is one of ten cities across the nation to receive funding through the grant. The grant is designed to reduce substance abuse one of the major factors in the community that cause young people to become perpetrators or victims of antisocial/violent act.
The 4C Coalition Mentoring Program recruits, trains and supports people from the community who volunteer their time to act as a mentor for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The mentor acts as a role model and support for the youth as he or she navigates the court system, drug court and back to the community.
The mentor helps the youth set goals, empowers the youth to help recognize his/her individual talents and offers guidance and support to help the youth lead a substance and crime free lifestyle. The mentors are matched to youth while in detention or on the day the youth attends court. The mentor is asked to meet with the youth at least once a week when in detention. Once the youth is back in the community, the mentor meets with the youth at least twice a month. The mentors are also asked to attend an initial eight-hour training and bi-monthly seminars. The training and seminars are designed to help the mentors broaden their options and knowledge when working with their assigned youth. Mentor Program staff is always available to support the mentors.
Each mentor/youth relationship is different but all are based on the message that the youth is worth the mentor’s time and effort. The mentor is encouraged to help the youth set goals that will enable him/her to succeed in the community. If you are interested in learning more about the program or becoming a mentor please contact Hazel at: (206) 354-4139