JK Movement Brings Leadership Training to YouthLink
Finding safe shelter for youth experiencing homelessness is always the most important work for YouthLink. But once a young person’s basic needs are met, we also strive to provide life enriching activities to assist youth in becoming self-sufficient. Such is the case for our new partnership with the JK Movement’s Youth Mentorship Program. The JK Movement, a St. Paul-based nonprofit, will be sending two program facilitators to YouthLink over the course of six weeks in March and April to mentor youth on topics including decision making, relating to others with respect and financial literacy.
“I grew up in the Rondo neighborhood with a sense of community and caring for one another and I wanted to bring that to my own organization,” says Johnny Allen, JK Movement’s Founder and Executive Director. “Adults cared and held us accountable and I felt the need to bring that flavor back in working with young people around the Twin Cities.” The sessions at YouthLink are led by trusted adult facilitators Glorius L. Martin and Kardel Arnett.
“It sounded interesting because it seemed like stuff we should have learned but didn’t have a chance to,” said Jessica, one of the group participants. “There are a lot of things I can use in this program.” “I live next door so I wanted to be more connected with the community,” said Aza, another participant. “I really enjoy the group setting.”
During the educational sessions, youth learn by participating in group discussions and hands on activities where they can reflect on their experiences and accomplishments, developing confidence to apply their new skills to future life experiences. If youth commit to participating three days per week, they are also compensated for completing the program. In addition to developing a positive attitude, Allen says, one of the main things he sees from the young people participating in the program is “just a sense of hope.”
To learn more about the JK Movement, please visit their website. Help us partner with other nonprofit organizations like this – make a donation to YouthLink today.
