The juvenile justice system and the adult justice system have many similarities, but the difference is often in the sentencing. In most areas, there are rules against sentencing children to long-term or lifetime sentences for crimes. Often, the purpose of sentencing juvenile offenders is to rehabilitate them and make sure that they make a change for the better moving into adulthood. For some juveniles who have been in trouble, turning around is difficult due to their environment. For this reason, volunteers and charities are needed to step in to fill in the gap to change the lives of young offenders. Here are three steps to setting up child public affair charities that will help young offenders make a life change. 

Work with the justice system

One of the best ways to find at-risk youth to mentor is to work closely with the juvenile justice system. Once you set up your charity, introduce yourself to advocates in the court system as well as social work offices. Offer your services for volunteering with offenders who are nearing the age of majority in order to get them on the right track. Be sure to bring along materials, such as your tax information if you are a 501c company, along with brochures and business cards that introduce you, your staff, and your specific outreach plan. 

Find mentors

Mentors will be the make or break portion of the program. Some offenders grow up in environments where everyone else engaged in criminal activity or did not have a constructive life plan. For this reason, the young offender became involved in the same types of crimes or did not know where to aim their goals. Find mentors who are doing well in their professional and familial life. Have youth offenders spend time with their mentor in both professional and personal settings. Being able to observe and speak with someone who is living well can help the youth grasp an idea on how they would like to formulate their new life. 

Arrange free trips and training

Field trips are a good way to get youth away from a negative environment in a way that is enriching. Schedule field trips that will allow the children to gain insight on useful hobbies or possible jobs for the future. The trips can be to tour plants, visit retail establishments and eateries in the area, or look behind the scenes of sporting events. Pointing youth towards constructive activities that are attainable for them will make children less frustrated and more goal oriented. 

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