Subcommittee Recommendations
The Positive Youth Development Subcommittee has made its recommendations to the Steering Committee. Click here to see the full recommendations.
Mayor's Charge to the Jacksonville Journey Positive Youth Development Subcommittee
We know first-hand the effect violent crime is having on our community. We have watched in the courtroom, the classroom and the community as young people head down a path that leads to one side or another of a tragic criminal equation. We have seen the devastating effect of violent crime on families, friends and neighbors. And we are deeply concerned not only about the individuals involved, but about the implications this trend has for our city's future.
The time has come for us to take action to prevent Jacksonville's story of hope, promise and surmounting the odds from becoming a tale of hopelessness, violence and economic stagnation. It is an enormous challenge, but the answer is the same one that has always brought us success: we must act together, and we must act now. We recognize that an enhanced law enforcement presence is a big part of the solution, but there must be more.
Accordingly, I'm asking you to join with me and others throughout the community in an effort to not just stem, but also to reverse the tide of violence that threatens our children, our families and our future. We will divide this effort among some of our city's best hearts and minds, enlist the help of others, and work to mobilize our entire city to do what needs to be done.
Helping to ensure the best possible development of our young citizens is your charge as part of this committee. We must fully support – and ultimately grow - the programs currently in place to guarantee our children receive the helping hands they deserve. We must reverse the culture of violence by offering alternatives and engaging the community in speaking out against crime.
Help heal our communities by matching our children with the assistance they need. Look to the Funding Subcommittee for support in implementing many of your suggestions. Help our youth become positive contributors to their communities and ours.
Undertake major push to support after-school programs
Fill the time after school and before dinner by expanding and fully funding after school programs that enrich the lives of our youth. Our children are most vulnerable between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. and studies show that less than 20 percent of kids who need services locally are receiving them. Set a timeline for opening new PAL programs with money secured by the Funding Subcommittee. Expand Team Up programs to all middle schools (will require 19 more programs.)
Encourage mentoring and volunteerism
Work with the PR Subcommittee and staff to coordinate ad campaigns and public service announcements encouraging community involvement and volunteerism. Make volunteering easy by linking to/participating with a Web site that lists opportunities and contact information (currently under development by Mentor Jax). For those who are unable to donate time, the city Web site will include a link to a donations page for Citizens for a Better Jacksonville or other financial initiatives put together by the Funding Subcommittee.
Expand the summer jobs program
Lobby more businesses to create at least 300 additional positions for our youth. Students between the ages of 16 and 21 learn valuable workplace, social and life skills in summer jobs which can contribute to their becoming active citizens in their neighborhoods, schools and families.
Engage Duval Youth Voice Council; Market 211 Hotline to Youth
Engage the existing Duval Youth Voice Council (created under the auspices of the Children's Commission) to help inform perspectives and rally their peers. Students must be involved in the volunteerism and fundraising efforts. Market United Way's 211 hotline to troubled youth to connect them with the organizations that best meet their needs.
For more information on The Jacksonville Journey, call (904) 630-CITY or click on the links to the left.