We’re proud of our partnership with Family Service & Children’s Aid’s JUMP program (Just Understand My Potential). JUMP provides at-risk juveniles with services to promote regular school attendance, employability, improved behavioral choices, better family relationships, and prevent future prosecution or recidivism.
A 15-year-old client was referred to JUMP for substance use prevention and education. After the initial meeting, this client requested to work on risk reduction related to substance use, anger management, responsible decision-making and healthy relationships. Over time the client learned to reduce risk during triggering situations. This client also learned to identify five coping skills to use when experiencing anger. As a result, the client could positively communicate their feelings to their parent. Even more, the client felt their family relationships improve after “being able to open up to them without yelling and getting into trouble.” During the six-month follow-up meeting, the parent explained that things are still improving. The client is looking forward to becoming more independent by applying for a job and looking into starting the career center during the school year.
By helping a family deal with a young person’s difficulties, a path toward lifelong success is being forged. That happens because our community invests in change through United Way. Please consider a financial gift today.