INDIANAPOLIS–There is a new pilot program to help young kids in Marion County.
Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears says it is called the Juvenile Second Chance Program. It’s being done in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis.
“The way this program will work is that we are trying to invest in young people,” said Mears. “When we look at our juvenile model, our goal is not to punish people. We’re asking, ‘what can we do to change behavior?”
If a person under the age of 18 commits a low-level, non-violent offense, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has agreed to pay a one-year standard membership fee at the Boys & Girls Clubs for those kids. Referrals are being accepted right away.
Juveniles will be provided with a referral letter notifying them that they are being given a second chance to avoid the criminal justice system prior to a delinquency filing if they take advantage of the program. Eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case review.
“Too many times we see too many young people who are literally involved with the wrong person or they don’t have anything to do. The Boys and Girls Club can solve that by offering programming all around the city by providing kids with an opportunity to get better and to learn,” said Mears. “One thing that we have found is that when you give young people opportunity and hope, they do not commit crimes.”
The Boys and Girls Clubs have locations throughout Marion County. They say they provide many opportunities for engagement like homework assistance, college readiness programs, mentoring, and sports.
