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St. Petersburg Launches Youth Champions Program to Combat Violence

Youth Champions program participants building trust with local law enforcement.

News Summary

The Youth Champions program in St. Petersburg aims to reduce youth violence in the Jordan Park community by providing emotional support and healthy expression outlets. Funded by a $35,000 grant, this initiative fosters trust between local law enforcement and youth, addressing critical needs in an area with high youth crime rates. Participants like Cabretti Wheeler Jr. highlight the program’s positive impact, while partnerships with organizations such as Mindful Movement Florida enhance emotional management skills among youths.

St. Petersburg is taking proactive steps to address youth violence in the Jordan Park community through a newly launched initiative called the Youth Champions program. This program recently secured a $35,000 grant from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, enabling it to offer essential support to local youth.

The Youth Champions program aims to provide a safe space where young individuals can express their emotions and make positive choices in life. The initiative is particularly significant because it operates in Jordan Park, an area identified through statistics from the Department of Juvenile Justice as having high youth crime rates. This program addresses the critical need for emotional guidance and fosters healthy outlets among youths.

Among the participants is Cabretti Wheeler Jr., who has been involved with the program since its inception in February. Wheeler has expressed that the program creates a non-judgmental atmosphere, allowing him to feel valued and acknowledged. His personal journey is poignant; Wheeler’s father was murdered in 2008, and since then, his family has actively participated in efforts aimed at reducing crime in St. Petersburg.

The focus of the program extends beyond fun activities—its mission is to equip youths with tools to manage their emotions effectively. Russia Collins, a Mental Health Specialist associated with the program, has observed that many participants face significant challenges and aims to help them derive strength from these experiences. Zulekah Foulen, a representative from the St. Pete Police Department, emphasized that many young people often lack healthy channels for expressing their feelings, turning instead to detrimental outlets like social media or negative home environments.

The Youth Champions program promotes relationships between local law enforcement and the youth within the community. St. Petersburg police officers are involved in various activities alongside the young participants, facilitating trust-building and community engagement. Foulen has shared her evolving perspective, mentioning that while she initially felt apprehensive around officers due to negative media depictions, her involvement in the program has changed her viewpoint, making her feel safer.

The program is set to celebrate its graduates during its last session on June 28, highlighting the significance of youth empowerment and communal support. Although it primarily targets children in Jordan Park, it is open to all youths in the area, broadening its reach and impact.

The broader effort to enhance relationships between St. Pete Police and community youth aligns with ongoing initiatives to combat gun violence and promote safety. Mindful Movement Florida, another key partner in the Youth Champions program, plays a vital role in teaching emotional management skills, further complementing the program’s objectives.

In a substantial commitment to youth crime prevention, the Forward Together program recently received $1 million in funding through St. Petersburg’s Innovative Equity Project. This funding underscores the community’s commitment to creating resources and opportunities for local youth, enhancing programs aimed at fostering a safe and supportive environment.

As the graduation for Youth Champions approaches, its impact on the community will continue to be evaluated. With a focus on emotional well-being and positive choices, this initiative stands as a promising framework for addressing the needs of vulnerable youths in St. Petersburg, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of reducing violence and promoting a healthier community.