Be a Mentor

Mentoring is one of the most effective things you can do to help an at-risk child. Both of us here at Calamari formally mentor kids and we can tell you --- it works! It's one of the most rewarding challenges you can undertake. A great place to start is with a visit to Big Brothers Big Sisters. Their program is simple. Commit to being a mentor for one year, and they will find you a good match. Spend an hour or two with your little, three or four times a month. Hang out. Be friends. That's all there is to it.

Prevent Child Abuse America

The folks at PCAA will tell you, broad sweeping change at the legislative level moves slowly, but on the ground, change comes much quicker. For over 35 years Prevent Child Abuse America has been a leading organization educating the public about the prevention of child abuse and neglect. Learn more about them, and better yet, get invloved at their website.

Education, Education, Education

Education and Family are arguably the two factors that affect at-risk kids most profoundly. There are many programs and organizations that support kids in their efforts to get their diplomas or GEDs. For instance, The Simon Youth Foundation has been fostering educational opportunities for at-risk youths since 1998. On their website you'll find several ways to get involved.

Community Links:

• ~ Find the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program close to you.
• ~ Search your ZIP Code on usaservice.org to learn about community events in your area.
• ~ The AIM program in Indiana address the critical issue of children aging out of the juvenile system. Learn more, get involved, emulate.

Stay Informed:

• Listen: Kojo Nnamdi Show segment about the prevention of juvenile crime
• The Annie E Casey Foundation is a well-spring of information about the juvenile justice system and the challenges states and localities face with juvenile reform.