By Gloria Frost

—–

Our community daily faces the major challenge of so many families being affected by the results of tough economic times and incarceration. All young people have the potential to succeed in life and contribute to society, but many do not get the support they need.

Nearly half of the U.S. population between 10 and 18 years of age live in situations that put them at risk of not living up to their potential. Without intervention by caring adults, they must navigate complex life situations on their own, leaving them vulnerable to poor decisions that can undermine their futures.

How do we encourage and develop the children of these circumstances?

The Community Corrections Improvement Association, a bootstrap foundation of Iowa’s Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services, has developed leading-edge mentoring programs as part of a comprehensive approach to building solutions for a safer community. The umbrella name for this program is Children of Promise, one of the area’s best kept secrets. When involved in the Children of Promise programs, young people go to school more, have decreased behavioral referrals while there, and are increasing their self confidence — we think because of the relationship they build with mentors.

Volunteers mentor 405 at-risk youths in Linn, Johnson and Jones Counties in the following programs:

l One-on-One Mentoring: Community-based mentoring for children, ages 5-18, who have a parent in the correctional system.

l Youth Leadership: Seven-year small group mentoring and summer enrichment program provides long-term support for at-risk middle and high school youths.

l Foster Grandparent: Low-income senior citizens work half-time in schools and day cares to mentor/tutor children on reading and social skills.

Leaders from many areas of life have stepped forward to ensure these programs remain strong and effective. One our latest is Zach and Kim Johnson and AEGON. They have teamed up with CCIA to raise much-needed funds. Now in its sixth year, Birdies That Care will contribute $50 for each birdie Zach achieves on the PGA Tour to Children of Promise. AEGON USA, with headquarters in Cedar Rapids, matches Zach’s donations. Combined with additional donations, this will make a real difference in the lives of many young people in need of a mentor.

For more information regarding Birdies That Care or to volunteer for a Children of Promise mentoring program, contact Jean Kuehl, CCIA, at jean.kuehl@iowa.gov.

Gloria Frost is president of the board of directors for CCIA.