Good role models

One of the reasons the Missouri Division of Youth Services is so highly regarded throughout the nation is the fact that it strives to provide positive reinforcement for youngsters who have the potential to be productive and successful adults even after run-ins with the law while in their teens.

That's why the participation of the Southeast Missouri State University football team and its coaching staff in providing positive role models for these youngsters is so important.

With the coordination of the Criminal Justice Department at the university, approximately 100 youths from Division of Youth Services facilities in Southeast Missouri were special guests recently at a tailgate party and football game.

Nothing grabs a young boy's attention more than the plainspoken story of someone who has walked in his sneakers and turned his life around.

Players and coaches also talked about the positive effect of being part of a team, making good decisions and avoiding bad people and situations. The boys listened.

The Criminal Justice Department, the football players and staff and Division of Youth Services officials are to be commended for this outstanding program.