We all know the adage about a picture being worth a thousand words, but conversely, a single powerful word can be just as evocative and descriptive. We asked some of the youth who have so eagerly participated in PESA programs such as Teen Court and SHADES for a single word that best describes or encapsulates their experiences with those groups. The responses were quite illustrative!
Julia, 15
“Amazing: PESA is an organization that I am so happy to be involved in. It is a super-friendly and welcoming community that greatly benefits many young lives.”
Shaya, 15
“Empowering: Teen court is uplifting teens in our community. It inspires me to see all the good that is being done by the program.”
Edan, 15
“Wonderful: Teen Court and SHADES have allowed students from diverse backgrounds to learn the skills essential to stop hate and give back to our community. Ultimately, everyone within the SHADES and Teen Court programs has been welcoming, kind and fun to work with.”
Veronica, 18
“Transformative: Teen Court was amazing, as I was able to watch myself and all of my peers build empathy in ways we didn't realize were possible.”
Axayacatzi, 13
“Thought-provoking: The word reflects how participating in these programs expanded my mindset and way of thinking. I was educated on the change people are capable of, emphasizing the importance of alternative sentencing, as well as the dangers and unfairness of biased thinking and the dehumanization of the offenders/delinquents who commit these crimes.” ■
If you’d like more information or to support PESA’s many social and educational initiatives, please contact us.