‘They’re our future’ Freeport youth programs to provide at-risk children with more services

FREEPORT, Ill. (WTVO) — Stephenson County Court Services announced the renewal of the Youth Diversion Grants, which could provide local organizations with $8,000 more in funds.

The Youth Diversion Grants are for local nonprofit organizations with programs that specifically target at-risk youths who are not currently in the legal system.

Court services reported that 51 juveniles are on probation, and chairman Dale Diddens said the funding could help reduce those numbers.

“Reducing crime affects everybody,” Diddens said. “If we can get to kids at a young age pointed in the right direction, it’s a win for everybody. It doesn’t always work out, but it’s certainly a good start and it’s a worthwhile program.”

Diddens said the funding comes only from a $5 youth diversion fee that is paid by persons convicted of criminal or traffic cases.

The Boys and Girls Club (BGC) of Freeport and Stevenson County has multiple after-school programs for children ages 6 through 17. Kids can spend time with art, music, computers and get one-on-one lessons with educators.

Education Coordinator Becky Spindler said BGC wants to help children get off the streets and onto the right path for them.

“It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes all of us to work together,” Spindler said. “Community, school after-school programs, parents, grandparents. We all play a role in that child’s life.”

James Rhyne is in his 30th year as executive director for BGC. Rhyne said the organization applied for and received the Youth Diversion grant in the past and is looking to apply again.

“That’s what I think local funding is truly for, is to provide for those gaps in programming,” Rhyne said. “We’ll take a look at our need and assess that, and that will determine if will apply this year.”

Spindler said after-school programs like BGC’s are helping shape children’s futures.

“You want that child to be pleasant, you want that child to have the skills necessary to be able to do a job and to do it well and to be able to communicate what’s needed,” Spindler said. “I think they’re our future.”

Applications will be open until April 1st at 6 p.m.