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UNO's Juvenile Reentry Mentoring Project Garners Nationwide Attention

jji mentoring program.

Within the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), the Juvenile Reentry Mentoring Project (JRMP) takes center stage as a dynamic initiative, defying initial skepticism and earning recognition that reaches well beyond state borders.

In 2011, recognizing the significant gap in mentorship opportunities for delinquent youth, particularly those who have committed serious law violations and are detained, the Juvenile Justice Institute (JJI) at UNO took proactive steps. Understanding the need, the JJI initiated a course dedicated to mentoring delinquent youth, aiming to match university undergraduates with youth transitioning back into the community.

Initially, there were concerns about the viability of the program, given that undergraduate students typically have limited "real-life" experience, and they were being paired with high-need delinquent youth. However, despite these initial reservations, the JJI went ahead with the Juvenile Reentry Mentoring Project (JRMP), a program that has now successfully matched over 300 students with system-involved youth.

Operating across the University of Nebraska systems (UNO, UNL, and UNK), as well as Wesleyan and Doane Universities, JRMP has defied expectations. Contrary to the anticipation of it being a short-lived course, the program has thrived for more than a decade, proving its effectiveness in providing mentorship to delinquent youth.

The success of JRMP extends beyond the borders of Nebraska, with neighboring states reaching out to the JJI for guidance on replicating the model. Delinquent youth, often overlooked in terms of mentorship opportunities, have found support and guidance through this initiative, showcasing the enduring impact of the Juvenile Reentry Mentoring Project. Highlights from the "Covid Cohort" of mentors underscore the transformative impact of JRMP. Damien Scovil, a US Army Intelligence Officer, emphasizes the importance of time and attentive listening in mentoring. He notes the value of understanding mentees' goals and tying motivation to their priorities.

“I learned that time is everything to your mentee, as well as listening to what they have to say,” said Scovil. "When I visited my mentee, we would chat for a while before diving into his goals. To me, it felt like he enjoyed having company from outside of the facility.”

I learned that all a lot of people want is to just be listened to and know their struggles are being heard. I learned resilience is a skill necessary to grow and become a better version of yourself each day.”

 Brigid Moynihan, Mentor and AmeriCorps Participant

Brigid Moynihan, an AmeriCorps participant and mentor, highlights the reciprocal nature of mentoring, learning as much from mentees as they do from mentors. “I learned that mentees in any capacity will teach you just as much as you will teach them,” Moynihan explained. “I learned that all a lot of people want is to just be listened to and know their struggles are being heard. I learned resilience is a skill necessary to grow and become a better version of yourself each day.” She encourages current mentors to approach relationships with kindness, patience, and understanding.

Maeve Hemmer, a recent graduate working with a local nonprofit, stresses the significance of consistency in mentoring. Her commitment to regular visits and clear communication allowed her to build a strong bond with her mentee, transcending geographical distances post-release. Hemmer is still in contact with her mentee and talks to her at least once a month. “When she comes to Nebraska, we spend time together and when there is big news to be shared or new obstacles to be navigated, I hear from her, too,” Hemmer said.
Hemmer advises mentors to maintain consistency, set clear boundaries, and view setbacks as opportunities for progress.

The impact of JRMP extends beyond UNO, reaching Wesleyan University and St. Edwards in Austin, Texas. Dr. Sara Moore, a UNO alum, notes that being part of JRMP enriches both academic and professional growth. The success of the program has prompted inquiries from faculty and probation offices in Iowa, Colorado, and Missouri about replicating the model.

Recognized for her dedication to mentoring, Dr. Anne Hobbs, the driving force behind JRMP, received the MENTOR Nebraska's Mentoring Advocate of the Year award in April 2021 and the Lincoln Journal Star INSPIRE award for Excellence in Education in October 2023. JRMP alumni have pursued diverse careers, from law and probation to the military and social work. In addition to her impactful advocacy and involvement, Dr. Hobbs remains deeply engaged in research, exploring critical areas such as inequality in access to justice, juvenile re-entry after incarceration, and mentoring youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

The Juvenile Reentry Mentoring Project stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, resilience, and positive transformation. Its enduring success story extends far beyond Nebraska's borders, serving as a blueprint for effective mentorship programs addressing the needs of incarcerated and increased risk youth nationwide.