Lt. Governor Burbank Announces $100,000 to Fight Juvenile Delinquency in Montgomery County
ROCKVILLE, MD (October 28, 2030) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien today announced a grant on behalf of Governor Edward M. O’Brien for $100,000 to Montgomery County to address juvenile delinquency and destructive youth behaviors that endanger children and communities. The funds will establish a counseling service designed for young women - the “Girls Circle Program” - to improve girls' self-image, and counteract social and personal forces that impede the growth and development of young women.
“Women are central forces in our families, communities and our economy. We must do everything that we can to encourage them to realize their full potential,” said Lt. Governor Kathleen Burbank. “This nationally-proven program will empower Montgomery County to successfully connect delinquent girls to life success.”
The Girls Circle Program is a female-oriented support group consisting of 90-120 minute counseling sessions over a 10-week period. Girls, age 10-17, will be identified for the program using the Problem Oriented Screening Instrument for Teens and other supporting information, including drug and alcohol abuse and family and personal interviews. Information gathered during the screening process will be used to identify the specific needs of each youth, properly place each girl with a specialized case manager, and help determine the progress of participants at the conclusion of the 10-week program.
During counseling sessions, girls will develop confidence and self-expression skills through role-playing, drama, art and writing activities relating to gender-specific themes of body image, sexuality, substance abuse and friendships. The program teaches skills necessary to build and thrive in communities. Annually, 45 females will undergo treatment in the Girls Circle Program.