Amanda’s Story
HIS STORY HER STORY THEIR STORY OUR FUTURE
Amanda Jackson has passionately worked in juvenile detention since 2008. Early on, she wondered why she saw the same kids coming in and out of the detention facility. Even those that seemed to do so well would come back through what seemed like a revolving door.
Amanda met with the Superintendent and Asst. Superintendent to discuss how they could reach these kids that kept coming back. From there, the Delta Program was born. Kids in detention with family or community related issues had to be referred to the program. Knowledgeable on this topic, Cole Williams got involved (and was later inspired to start The Delta Project with Joel Van Kuiken).
Eager to connect more with the kids, Amanda took on the role of Delta Residential Probation Officer. She was responsible for identifying issues, spotting challenges in the home, planning solutions, and reunifying kids with their parents. But she didn’t stop there! Wanting to reach the kids within their own communities, Amanda became a Community Probation Officer. She now helps three times as many kids by connecting them and their families with the right services and resources.
Amanda loves being able to witness each child grow and overcome adversity. She is a big part of their journeys and also offers a unique perspective as a woman. Many of these kids come from single parent households and are often raised by a female. Amanda naturally builds a great rapport with the kids while also serving as an excellent role model.
We asked Amanda the important question, “How do I become something I don’t see?” that one of our kids once asked. Initially, she did not necessarily have a passion for helping kids, nor did she always see the path her life has brought her to today. The support and encouragement of of her family inspired her to start working in juvenile detention. Amanda's sentiments on this topic were profound:
“People see things in you that you can’t see in yourself…you have to gravitate towards those individuals that see something in you and for those people to pull it out of you.”
Amanda became something she couldn't see. And now the impact she has on countless kids is truly inspiring. You won't find her asking for praise or accolades. She works behind the scenes, often dimming her light so others can shine. But today we wanted to shine a light on her impact.
Her voice and her story matters. Thank you for everything you do, Amanda!