From Bars to Brilliance

As a recipient of the Center for Improving Youth Justice (CIYJ) scholarship Stephen, on the right, completed his master's degree in Supply Chain Management. In addition to his successful career in real estate, he also gives back by serving CIYJ as a mentor.

One of the young people he actively mentors is Dalton, left. Dalton is currently enrolled in college and on target to complete his associate's degree with the support of the Center for Improving Youth Justice J. Russell "Russ" Jennings Scholarship.

Maurice, center, was the winner of the first-ever CIYJ Kids Got Talent content, was an American Idol contestant and is now working as a musician pursuing his dream.

More than 100 justice-impacted young people have been helped by CIYJ programs, such the Reentry Award to support transition from incarceration to community and the Emplyment Matching Award that promotes employment while incarcerated to gain experience needed for future jobs.

Honor their journey by helping the next round of justice involved young people move from Bars to Brilliance.

Here are some ways you can make a difference:

• $15,000 Supports two-years' tuition for a Scholarship Recipient
• $2,500 Covers the cost of a Mentor's travel to visit their mentee while incarcerated
• $1,000 Pays for one Employment Matching Award
• $500 Pays for one Reentry Award
• $100 Contributes to the Kids Got Talent Contest winner's live performance