GREENFIELD — Sun Street Centers has released new details about a $500,000 grant to expand its Road to Success program in partnership with the City of Greenfield, including plans to reach younger students and offer more hands-on activities.
The funding, previously accepted by the Greenfield City Council through the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program, will support an expanded contract with the city to grow the pre-diversion program’s services in South Monterey County over the next two years.
Sun Street Centers’ Road to Success program works with schools, law enforcement and families to support youth before they enter the juvenile justice system by providing individualized plans aimed at keeping students engaged in school and on a positive path.
With the new funding, the program will broaden its reach to include fifth- and sixth-grade students, in addition to those already served. Organizers say the expansion will include more enrichment opportunities, such as college visits, kayaking and incentives for completing program goals.
Over the life of the grant, the program aims to serve 240 families, providing youth with support focused on healthy decision-making, personal development and long-term success.
For the past decade, Road to Success has partnered with schools, law enforcement and families to offer counseling, WhyTry and Life Skills Training, positive activities, community service and family support as alternatives to suspension or justice involvement.
“This grant will extend our intervention services over the next two years, helping educate the community, school staff and youth,” said Denise Velasquez, program manager for Road to Success in South Monterey County. “We hope to continue supporting youth in making healthier decisions for themselves and their future. We are honored to continue our collaboration with the City of Greenfield and the Greenfield Police Department.”
Since its inception, the program has maintained a 70% success rate among participants, according to Sun Street Centers, with an emphasis on mentorship, accountability and prevention.
The added funding is expected to strengthen the program’s ability to intervene earlier, connect families with support and provide more structured activities designed to keep youth engaged and focused on positive outcomes.
For more information about Sun Street Centers and the Road to Success program, visit sunstreetcenters.org.
