The young men are placed either by their parents or probation
officers. Typically, they have had a first criminal offense or had
severe disciplinary problems at home and school.
Hollister
The police department’s Juvenile Impact Program will start up again thanks to staff increases made possible by Measure T, the sales-tax hike approved by voters in November.
Officer Rosie Betanio of the Hollister Police Department will head the program slated to begin Sept. 6. It consists of many speakers, classes and activities for at-risk youths and their parents.
“This is a two-time award-winning program,” said Betanio, adding that the whole department is thrilled to have it back.
The program during the first 12 weeks is for males while comprised of 20 youths, ages 12 to 17.
The young men are placed either by their parents or probation officers. Typically, they have had a first criminal offense or had severe disciplinary problems at home and school.
“It is a military boot camp-style program,” said Betanio. “They wear all basic, gray uniforms, and the Army comes in for an hour to drill and exercise them.”
Community volunteers join the group to give tours of the prison in Salinas and to give seminars on such subjects as anger and stress management, domestic violence and Planned Parenthood.
“These volunteers are professionals from the community,” said Betanio. “They help guide those in the program on the right path.”
There also is a course of career aptitude testing. Participants are asked about vocational goals and then are guided along so they can find a way to achieve them. Parents are part of the program as well.
They receive parenting classes and are asked to keep in constant contact for the duration of the program regarding their kids’ current levels of progress and focus.
Anyone interested in further information can call Betanio at 636-4330.
