One of the goals of myregion.org is to train Central Florida’s leaders to successfully guide our future by creating a deeper understanding of the realities of the assets, threats and opportunities in our region. Even before the tragic events of September 11, myregion.org‘s Project Leadership had determined that more information needs to be shared among police, fire, and all levels of public service if we want to preserve the good health, safety and welfare of all the citizens of the region.

Much has been written about the problems associated with the breakdown of the family unit and its effect on society. When we read about drug usage, gangs, gun possession and schools’ imminent need to implement tighter security measures, we fear that our children are exposed to a rapidly changing pattern of crime. We wonder if there should be a stronger focus on juvenile crime prevention. The number of juvenile offenders in our state and in our region is rapidly increasing, and the statistics are alarming.

The Department of Juvenile Justice reported 51,325 felony cases in the state involving juveniles (under 18 years of age) in 2000 – 2001. These juvenile offenders were arrested for 14,412 burglaries, 10,963 aggravated assault/batteries, 3,819 auto thefts, 784 sexual batteries, 781 armed robberies, 524 arsons and 80 cases of murder/manslaughter. It is hard to believe that victims of crime have had their homes violated, their loved ones hurt, their possessions stolen, and their sense of peace and security shattered by a child. As leaders of this region, we can help save our youth from losing their lives to the dead-end of crime and drugs.

Strong parenting skills, mutual respect and common values are some of the qualities of a healthy and nurturing home environment. Research has shown that the significant presence of one adult in the life of a child exposed to significant risk factors such as poverty, family instability and a drug- and crime-ridden neighborhood can be the key factor in preventing delinquency. But not every child is fortunate enough to have a caring, conscientious adult in his or her life.

Typically, juveniles are most likely to become chronic offenders if their first arrest is at age 15 or younger or if they have three out of four of the following risk factors:

• Poor school performance and truancy
  
• Mental-health and substance-abuse problems
  
• Lack of family stability
  
• Gang affiliation and pre-delinquent behaviors such as being disruptive, running away and stealing.
  

“Think about becoming a mentor. The contribution of your time as a role model to one of these at-risk kids will help him or her think through making more positive choices in the future. You will also help reduce victimization of our citizens, making our region a better place,” said Rick Blucker, Director of Plans and Programs with the USAF’s 45th Space Wing and myregion.org’s Public Safety Co-Chair.

For information on how you can mentor or volunteer, contact your local Florida Department of Juvenile Justice circuit office or go to www.djj.state.fl.us.