Lone Tree’s Teen Court is a diversion-like justice program for youth and run by youth and uses positive peer influence and restorative justice principles to help respondents address the harm caused after receiving a ticket. Youth and adult volunteers from the community are invaluable to the Teen Court process.
Every year, the amazing volunteers who make this program a huge success, are honored with a special awards ceremony. On Jan. 25, various volunteers received awards for their service and accomplishments within the program.
Positive Peer Award – Taylor Witte
Taylor received this award for her unwavering advocacy for youths and for her championing of youth voices in community matters. When serving on a Peer Panel, she asks follow-up questions that demonstrate her keen listening and always makes new volunteers feel welcomed. Additionally, when interacting with other volunteers, Taylor is honest when expressing her beliefs, but willing to listen to others when they express a differing opinion.
Taylor is a role model to Teen Court volunteers and has demonstrated tremendous commitment whether she’s serving on a Peer Panel, the Mini Law School Local elections event with City Clerk, the Intercultural Communication training or during General Legal Training. Taylor grapples with nuances and challenging concepts relating to justice, law, and community. This dedication to difficult concepts along with Taylor’s positivity towards other volunteers and families makes each panel more beneficial and empathetic to all involved.
Ripple of Impact Award Myles Rubin
Myles received this award for the positive impact he has on the Teen Court program, its participants and their families, and the Teen Court volunteers. As one of the first members of the Teen Court’s Student Leadership Board, Myles helped mold the leadership group into what it is today. Last year, when faced with the challenges of in-person meetings due to COVID, Myles advocated for virtual meetings and has helped SLB achieved great success since then, including producing a video to promote the Teen Court program.
Most notably, Myles shares his joy, enthusiasm, and encouragement with any peer he encounters. During a time when some people feel unheard, this seemingly simple gesture of recognition creates unquantifiable benefits for individuals in the community.
Outstanding Service Award Amy Kibort
Amy received this award not only because of the amount time she dedicates to serving Teen Court participants and volunteers, but because of how seriously she takes each service activity. Amy signed up for almost every service activity in 2020 and applied herself fully so that she could best serve others.
She does not just view community service as a check mark for school or college, but as an avenue to connect with those around her and influence positive change. Amy’s commitment has greatly improved Teen Court, and her contributions will sustain innovations and improvements in years to come.
To learn more about Lone Tree’s Teen Court, click here.