ALMS is Part of Something Special
Since 2020 ALMS has been a part of the Yolo County's District Attorney's Restorative Justice Program. It offers a second chance to avoid a criminal conviction on a person's record upon successfully completing the program. ALMS plays a crucial role by providing mentors to young adults who have committed their first-time, low-level crime. ALMS also uses the curriculum to open their eyes and help them see the world differently.
With the guidance of experienced mentors, young men and women referred to ALMS are encouraged to explore their potential, be heard, validated, and inspired to reach for the stars. This journey of self-discovery seems to resonate deeply with our youth, inspiring hope and a sense of possibility.
During our first meeting, one young man (age 24) told us that he had no one he trusted to talk about his life, yet he was doing well at his job. After the first forty-five minutes of discussion, he confessed that he had shared more information with his new mentors than with both his parents. "I felt really comfortable being vulnerable in front of both mentors" (male and female).
Even after meeting the requirement of the Restorative Justice Program, he made the commitment to continue with ALMS. He works six days a week but spends his only day off at the clubhouse, gladly meeting with his mentors. Here are some of the responses from his ALMS training.
"The curriculum went hand in hand with my real-life events."
"I'm learning that what you do has far greater importance than what you say."
We are thrilled to witness the profound transformation of a young man who now has a safe place to go and can speak freely without fear of judgment. He no longer feels alone and is no longer compelled to associate with those making poor choices. His life is changing, and he is part of a supportive community that believes in him. His story is a testament to the power of the ALMS program and should inspire us all to support this cause!
Our commitment to these youth extends beyond the conclusion of the program - AND YOU CAN HELP! We will continue to provide support, enabling the young artists to collaborate and learn from each other. We also aim to introduce and promote these young adults to the community. If you are interested in contributing to these ongoing efforts, please contact Jayne Williams at (916) 769-5162. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of these young individuals.
Imagine - the impact of changing the trajectory of just one young person’s life. “We would actually change more than that person because we would change how they choose their spouse, love their children, invest into their community, improve their planet – and maybe save the world.”
Originally Released August 25th, 2024
