The Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO) has announced its Juvenile Choice Program is now open to anyone ages 11 to 17, according to a news release.
The program is geared toward mentoring youth by highlighting the real consequences of bad decisions and encouraging kids to make strides toward a positive future, the release says.
Youth in the program learn through classroom instruction and participation in exercises. PSO members also give a virtual tour of Pasco County’s Corrections Center, a walk through the booking process, and review scenarios to teach the importance of making informed choices.
In addition, participants will discuss the challenges they see today such as peer pressure, substance abuse and involvement in criminal activities, and how those challenges influence their paths.
The interactions between PSO members and those in the program focus on empowerment and education. Both law enforcement and the kids can build trust during the program, which opens the lines of communication and, in turn, keeps our community safe.
Students also can reflect on their goals for the future and how they can achieve them.
The Juvenile Choice Program meets in person at various locations across Pasco County and lasts three hours.
The first meeting is open to all ages 11 to 17 on April 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at 7601 Little Road in New Port Richey.
For more information about times and locations, or to sign up a youth for this program, email the participant’s name, age and parent contact information to .
Published April 17, 2024
