Models for youths

Some 120 teenagers from Division of Youth Services group homes in Southeast Missouri got a dose of reality recently, and it wasn't all bad news. Members of the Southeast Missouri State University basketball team and coaches shared real-life experiences all teens encounter, and there were some practical suggestions for youngsters who want to turn their lives around.

This was the sixth year that Southeast's Department of Criminal Justice has sponsored the program that brings the teens and team members together. In the past it has been the football team that met with the youths, but this year the basketball players met with the group. The youths also attended a football game at Houck Stadium. For many of the youths, this event is truly a highlight.

DYS has long held national prominence for its positive and proactive approach to teens who run afoul of the law. The aim is to set them on the right course and show them that it is possible to get an education and succeed in life even though there may be bumps early on. Some of the team members and even some coaches shared their own personal stories of triumph over adverse conditions and situations. Those first-hand stories reach many of the youngsters looking for guidance.

At this year's event, DYS teens heard about the need for accountability, the influence of strong role models and the importance of working hard to make good grades. Thanks to this effort, some teens will make an extra effort to win instead of being caught up in a cycle of failure.