The issue

The small rural community of Jefferson faced a growing concern: the rise of juvenile criminal behavior. With limited places for youth to gather and socialize, the risk of increased mischief and crime, as well as the encroachment of gang activity, posed a significant threat to the area’s young population. It was crucial to find a solution that would keep local youth engaged and safe.

The situation

As Jefferson’s population grew, so did the need for safe, constructive spaces for young people. With a predominantly agricultural landscape, the town lacked adequate facilities where adolescents could congregate and socialize. Local stakeholders, including the school district, municipal judge, and county government, had partnered to establish a successful youth peer court to address juvenile criminal cases. However, they recognized the need for additional programs to foster positive interactions among young people and steer them away from potential gang involvement or drug use.

The story

In response to the growing concerns of juvenile crime and the threat of gang activity, a partnership was formed among local faith leaders, the school district, and the county Youth Initiatives Program. This collaboration led to the creation of Nite Court, a weekly program offering a variety of activities at the middle school.

For a nominal entrance fee of $1.00, with no one turned away due to lack of funds, Nite Court provided a safe space for students to enjoy activities such as basketball, volleyball, skateboarding, pool, foosball, video games, and more. Free refreshments were also available in the cafeteria.

Before I joined as a coordinator, Nite Court was already operating successfully. However, when the original coordinators moved out of the area, I, along with two other active volunteer chaperones, stepped in to assume program management and coordination roles. Together, we divided responsibilities such as overseeing non-profit operations, budgeting, fundraising, grant applications, equipment maintenance, volunteer scheduling, and special event planning. One coordinator liaised with the school and led fundraising efforts, another served as treasurer, and I managed volunteer chaperone scheduling and special event planning.

Over time, our dedicated team of volunteers continued to expand the program, adding more activities and options for participants. This led to increased attendance and a diverse range of engaging experiences for local youth, creating a positive environment that fostered friendships, personal growth, and a strong sense of community.

The result

Nite Court quickly gained traction, with attendance rising to an average of 50-70 teens per session. The program offered a diverse array of activities, ensuring that everyone felt included and could find something they enjoyed. Participants could skateboard on half-pipes in the parking lot, play games in the gym, watch movies in the basement, or simply hang out and socialize in the cafeteria.

Reasons for success

Nite Court’s success can be attributed to several factors:

A safe, inclusive environment: The program provided a positive alternative to potential gang involvement or drug use, meeting a wide range of social needs for adolescent development.

Diverse activities: The program catered to various interests, ensuring that all participants felt welcomed and engaged.

Affordability: A low entrance fee made the program accessible to all, while still offering refreshments and a wide range of activities.

Positive role models: The coordinators and volunteer chaperones served as supportive figures, offering guidance and a listening ear when needed.

Support for food-insecure youth: By offering food at the events, Nite Court discreetly supported those experiencing food insecurity.

Strategic scheduling: Hosting events during prime social hours for adolescents increased participation and engagement.

In summary, Nite Court addressed the pressing issue of juvenile crime in Jefferson by providing a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for local youth. The program’s success can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the community, the diverse range of activities offered, and the dedication of coordinators and volunteers who ensured a positive experience for all participants.