The new “Baraga County Youth Mentorship Program” aims to help teenagers in the county

L’ANSE, Mich. (WLUC) – A new youth mentoring program is in its early stages in Baraga County.

“We just try to match the youth with adults who have similar interests and ask them to try to spend time together once a week,” said Dawn Howe, Baraga County Court Juvenile Worker.

The program was developed by Howe and Baraga County Prevention Contractor Heather Tapani. Tapani says there is a need for positive role models and experiences for the young people the court works with. In a statement, she writes:

“In my experience working with young people, I have noticed that many of them do not take into account their education and struggle to see their own potential. Often they don’t have the support system they need to thrive… sometimes young people are surrounded by family and friends who engage in the same negative behaviors or lack some of the same life skills, leaving them without role models positives to follow. guide them.

Howe notes that community resources for these teens are “few and far between,” and they can’t always reach resources in places like Houghton or Marquette. The program hopes to meet this need.

Mentors would show support, respect confidentiality and even participate in activities with students. Howe says potential mentors shouldn’t be discouraged from trying because of past mistakes.

“We have a lot of adults who may have had a blemish or two in the past who are still wonderful people who have great things to offer,” Howe added. “I see a lot of those people who can have things like that coaching ball teams, who are great parents to their kids. You have a lot to offer.”

However, applicants will still be subject to background checks. Applications can be found at the Baraga County Probate Office or requested by email at [email protected].