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Just in Time taps the huge but largely untapped reservoir of volunteer resources in our community.
We have observed that the true transformative effect of JIT is not in the things we provide, but rather the ongoing relationships initiated through our programs. We believe this powerful opportunity to connect with caring adults is the vital missing link in most traditional programs designed to assist emancipated youth. This is why we created the JIT Champions Initiative.
Our staff members mobilized 200+ volunteers to connect them to foster youth, not as generic "mentors," but rather as "Champions" to help in specific ways based on interest and expertise, the same way a mother, uncle or older sibling might. This includes My First Home Guides, Asset Advisors, JIT Faculty, Life Skill Coaches, and Career Mentors. These ongoing connections to adults also serve as role models and relationship models that were often absent from their experience within the foster care system. Our FY2011 budget captures this innovative element as $250,000 in volunteer hours!
The manner in which JIT connects youth with Champions is attractive to volunteers because it is task-based and safe, requiring a small investment of time initially. As adults interface with youth, they begin investing their own funds much as a family member would. Their experience is so gratifying that they recruit their friends and associates to get involved.
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