I interned with the CARES program and got to work one on one every day with juveniles on probation or supervision. I was able to take them on trips to museums, amusement parks and places all over NYC. During workshops on Wednesday's I was able to hear their goals for the future, and help mold their thinking process of decisions and help them figure out the appropriate responses to future scenarios in their lives.
What I wish was different
I wish that the staff in charge of the program would have reached out to the Probation officers in all the boroughs In advance to remind them of the program and update them and hand them paperwork to start getting juveniles applications. However, since they did not and I had to one on one speak with all of the Probation Officers in Staten Island to explain the program and get the ball rolling with them finding juveniles eligible to apply and sign up.
Advice
Be humble and kind. Don't be judgmental and be understanding that you have it better than most of the youth you will interact with. That they don't know any better, and 9/10 kids just want attention and to see that someone cares / gives them the time of day.
