On Tuesday, the U. S. Department of Labor awarded 15 grants, valued at $20 million, to help formerly incarcerated individuals between the ages 18-24. The grants are to help young offenders reconnect with their communities and find pathways to success through community service and educational opportunities.

The Computer Mentors Group, Inc., was the only organization in the southeastern United States to receive a grant. It is valued at $1,007,149,000.

The Computer Mentors Program came into existence in 1997. Ralph Smith, founder and Executive Director of the program, began with five youngsters at the then Ybor City (now Robert Saunders) Library. In 2001, Smith moved the program to its current location at 2802 E. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd.[private]

“The grants will directly support young people looking to improve their skills and long-term employment prospects. The Civic Justice Corps includes learning through community service and valuable experiences that serve not only participants, but also the families and communities to which they are returning,” Hilda L. Solis, Secretary of Labor said.

Beyond service opportunities, the Civic Justice Corps offers post-secondary education and training, community connections, high staff-to-participant ratios, career development, and post-program support and follow-up, all of which help reduce recidivism rates.

Since its inception, more than 1,100 youngsters have gained computer skills through the program. Youngsters, ages 14 to 18, attend a 6-month course known as the Teen Computer Certification and Ownership Program. The youngsters are taught computer skills, learn how to build their own computer and take it home upon completion of the program.[/private]