Through repeated failures in the classroom, in other community based organizations and with the development of destructive habits, at-risk adolescents and teens, as well as adults, have lost faith in the possibilities that await them if they are to be successful in putting their lives together. To accomplish this goal, young people, as well as adults, must be in a caring, inclusive learning enviro
nment that promotes their best effort and reinforces personal respect. The Mirror Project is a program that is in direct response to the growing number of young people that are either falling through the cracks at school or are already entangled with the juvenile court system, for those teens who are currently pregnant or parenting, and those adults who struggle to cope with everyday life. The program seeks to not only celebrate the lives of our participants, but to also help establish a life that is empowering for them, and their families. The goal of the program is to identify those individuals who are experiencing a turbulent transition to a more centered adulthood and offer a positive support system to avoid the pitfalls that can derail their paths. The focus is slightly different at each level but the goal remains the same; assisting them to become empowered to make positive changes in their lives. During that time, participants will be involved in weekly planned activities to strengthen the relationship between them and group facilitators/mentors, and improve their confidence and hopefulness. Group facilitators/mentors will receive continuous training throughout the year and will participate in weekly meetings to report the participants’ progress to the leadership team. Over time, The Mirror Project will create a learning environment that will be an invaluable resource to all participants, aspiring mentors and the community at large.
