On May 31, 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, in partnership with the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, will launch the fourth annual Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Credible Messenger Youth Summer Violence Intervention Program. The program's commencement will take place at the Atlanta Technical College Preparatory Academy.
“This intensive mentoring program is an investment in our youth that will offer a solid foothold on a path to economic, social, and educational opportunities while keeping them engaged over the summer,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Our continued partnerships with community leaders, law enforcement, and families are all vital to successfully reducing recidivism and improving community safety.”
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis added, “Every summer during my time as District Attorney, our team has joined with U.S. Attorney Ryan Buchanan and his team to bring the Credible Messenger Program to at-risk youth in Fulton County. Our cooperative efforts have made a real difference in getting kids back on track, and we look forward to another summer of working with kids and making Fulton County a safer, more just place for everyone.”
“Community involvement remains the key to maintaining an environment of structure and accountability for our at-risk youth,” said Shawanda Reynolds-Cobb, Commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice. “Over the past several years, Project Safe Neighborhood has become an invaluable tool in promoting positive outcomes through reduced recidivism.”
The Summer Mentorship Program targets youth aged 15 to 19 who are on felony probation and involves a 10-week intensive mentorship initiative. Participants will engage in support forums, career readiness training, community engagement activities, and cognitive-behavioral life-skills sessions using the Forward Thinking and Project EGRESS curriculum. Additionally, participants are encouraged to enroll in Atlanta Technical College’s Dual Achievement Program to earn both a high school diploma and a technical certificate in a specific career pathway. Active participants will receive a weekly stipend.
This initiative is being implemented by Southeast Credible Messengers and the PSN Prevention and Reentry program of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Southeast Credible Messengers is a collaboration between organizations aimed at promoting positive youth mentorship, reducing recidivism, enhancing public safety, and fostering family & community engagement. The Offender Alumni Association (OAA), Inc., leads this effort.
Acknowledgment was also given to leadership from various supporting entities including the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice Office of Reentry Services, Fulton County Juvenile Court, City of Atlanta Cure Violence Initiative, Credible Messenger Mentoring Movement (CM3), Emerging 100 of Atlanta, Rocket Foundation, and local businesses.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.