The path to a financially stable and successful life begins in youth. We’re proud of our partnership with Family Service & Children’s Aid’s JUMP program (Just Understand My Potential), which provides at-risk juveniles with services to promote regular school attendance, employability, improved behavioral choices, better family relationships, and prevent future prosecution or recidivism.
Sam came into the JUMP program through a school referral due to truancy issues. Sam had a difficult time paying attention during classes, listening to instructions, and finding motivation to wake up on time to get to school. Sam’s family wanted to be more involved with encouraging Sam’s education and future. Sam and both parents attended the truancy prevention classes. Sam also took substance use education classes after it was learned he was also vaping THC. Sam worked on communication skills, finding the importance of education, emotion management, and decision-making, including financial literacy. After completing the classes, JUMP staff continued to meet with Sam and school staff to provide additional support while Sam transitioned into returning to school full time. Since completing the program, Sam has been identified with being able to graduate early, received a Competency-Evaluated Nursing Assistant (CENMA) certificate, and is now interviewing for a job. With the help of the JUMP program and having that additional support with the family, Sam has been able to thrive in and out of school.
JUMP gave Sam a second chance to get his life back on track. Stories like this show how partnership and donor support make a huge difference in people’s lives right here in Jackson County! Please support our work.