Since 1989, Choice has engaged, mentored, trained, and advocated with thousands of youth. The overarching program goals are to disentangle young people from the youth legal system and to strengthen ties to the community through increased educational and vocational opportunities. Choice is a university-based, community-committed program, administered by The Shriver Center at The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC.)
Choice utilizes a community-based, family-centered approach in order to promote positive outcomes for young people and families in Maryland. Our mentors serve as advocates and work to connect families to self-identified, needed resources and reinforce a strengths-based, approach to positive youth development rooted in anti-racismt. We meet people “where they are,”
We engage in a collaborative process: where young people set goals for themselves and are supported by their Choice mentors along the way. We aim to strengthen communities through innovative, evidence-informed, family-focused strategies that connect youth to opportunities for positive choices. is accomplished using a culturally responsive, trauma-responsive, community-based approach that identifies and links the youth and families with social supports; fosters caring relationships; develops high expectations; and provides meaningful participation in youth-centered, community-based activities.
Choice works with young people and their families in the Baltimore and Washington DC metro areas.
We are grateful for partnerships with and funding from the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services; Governor’s Office on Crime Prevention, Youth and Victim Services; Family League of Baltimore City; Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism; Baltimore County Government; University of Baltimore; Housing Authority of Baltimore City; Levy Restaurants and the Baltimore Orioles; and Baltimore City Rec and Parks.
