Experience with youth in custody

In 2004 I began working at a residential assessment facility with youth in custody.  After many types of assessments, we made recommendations to court for their future placement, either back home, to group homes or various facilities throughout the state. One important lesson I learned from working there was to match programs with the needs of the child.  This happened through assessment tools as well as spending time with the kids and helping them find things that motivated them in a positive way.  

During most of my years there I was in charge of all of the volunteers.  We had groups come in for church services and activities, art, therapy dogs, crocheting, and special speakers.  We had many community service projects as well as projects around the center.  

One project I spearheaded was making quilts for their beds.  It was fun to see them learn to sew on the machine, cut fabric, design quilt patterns and be invested in the quilts they created.   

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