Lake County (OH) Juvenile Court Partners With Laketran To Empower At-Risk Youth Through Enrichment Programs

Shown, left to right, are Laketran CEO Ben Capelle and Lake County Juvenile Court Judge Michael DeLeone. (Photo courtesy of Laketran)

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering positive development among at-risk youth, Lake County (OH) Juvenile Court has announced its partnership with Laketran, a regional public transportation agency, to facilitate access to extracurricular activities and work programs associated with probation requirements.

“Recognizing the challenges faced by at-risk youth in the community, the new Transitions program seeks to provide the resources necessary for students to engage in a variety of enrichment activities such as sports, clubs, and vocational programs,” according to a press release. “Many students within the juvenile justice system currently lack the means to access these opportunities and find themselves confined at home without positive outlets for personal growth.

“The primary goal of this program is to empower these young individuals by offering them the chance to participate in meaningful activities that they are interested in to contribute to their overall well-being and development. By connecting them with a range of extracurricular options, the partnership aims to reduce the likelihood of recidivism.”

Judge Michael DeLeone, presiding over the Lake County Juvenile Court, expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative effort: “Our mission is to rehabilitate and support the youth under our jurisdiction. Through this partnership with Laketran, we are creating opportunities for these young individuals to channel their energy into constructive and rewarding activities. By providing access to sports, clubs, and work programs, we hope to instill a sense of purpose and accomplishment, ultimately steering them away from potential reoffending.”

Laketran CEO Ben Capelle echoed these sentiments, stating, “At Laketran, we believe in the power of community partnerships to bring about positive change. We are proud to join forces with Lake County Juvenile Court in this important initiative. By providing reliable transportation options, we are breaking down barriers and ensuring that at-risk youth can have equal access to participate in activities that contribute to their personal growth and success.”

The release added: “With funding support from the Ohio Department of Youth Services, the collaborative effort between Lake County Juvenile Court and Laketran represents a commitment to the holistic development of at-risk youth in the community. Through the provision of accessible transportation and the facilitation of meaningful activities, the partnership aims to create a positive impact on the lives of these young individuals and contribute to a safer, more engaged community.”