Episode 02: Stacy McGinnis
Episode Summary
In this episode of "What I Know Now," our hosts Cole and Joel sit down with Stacy McGinnis, a retired superintendent of the juvenile Detention center in Grand Rapids with over 30 years of experience in the juvenile justice system. Stacy noticed a concerning trend of children being separated from their families and placed in facilities without much positive change in behavior. This led her to start the Delta program, a residential program aimed at impacting young people during their time in the facility and helping them reintegrate into the community.
Stacy shares the importance of empathy and meeting young people where they are, emphasizing that the children in the facility are just kids who have made poor decisions. She discusses the challenges of showing empathy while considering the victims involved but emphasizes the need to look past the charges and focus on addressing the genuine needs of the young people.
Throughout the episode, Stacy and the hosts delve into the stories of young people who have gone through the Delta program, highlighting how relationships and connections play a crucial role in their rehabilitation. They discuss the need for greater investment in kids at the initial involvement with the system, including funding for after-school programs and providing opportunities for positive experiences. They also emphasize the importance of a parenting component in treatment programs to ensure lasting change.
Join us for this insightful and thought-provoking episode as Stacy shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences in working with young people in the juvenile justice system. Don't miss out on the powerful stories of hope, resilience, and the importance of investing in our youth. Tune in now to "What I Know Now" podcast by The Delta Project.
