Youth Diversion and Enrichment Center readies to offer a gamut of innovations
A new chapter in youth development is unfolding in Metro Jackson with the upcoming launch of the Youth Diversion & Enrichment Center. According to Hinds County Youth Court Judge Carlyn Hicks, who envisioned the multifaceted center, “this is a one-of-a-kind facility dedicated to empowering at-risk young people.” The spacious enrichment center, located inside the Jackson Medical Mall, will officially welcome participants with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Wednesday, October 1, at 2:00 p.m.
Judge Hicks described the Center as both a safety net and a springboard. “The Youth Diversion & Enrichment Center is about opportunity and accountability. A place where young people can reset, skill up, and be seen for their strengths. We are aligning the Court, community partners, as well as youth and families to deliver the supports that help youth change course and thrive.”
Curated by the Hinds County Children’s Coalition (HCCC), the facility offers an impressive range of services designed to address the many challenges today’s youth may face. These include mental health support, tutoring, literacy programs, mentoring, and workforce development. The Center is also a certified GED testing site, providing young people with direct access to educational advancement and career preparation.
The space is intentionally designed to meet children where they are, featuring:
1. an Innovation Suite & Enterprise Lab for entrepreneurship coaching;
2. STEAM activities and career exploration;
3. a Creative Lab & Sound Booth, where kids can engage in content creation, podcasting, and music production;
4. an Incentive Zone that rewards goal completion and skill building with positive reinforcement;
5. Wraparound and Wellness Suites offering trauma informed care, peer support, and access to local mental health providers; and
6. an Academic Recovery Suite with tutoring, a computer lab, and GED preparation resources will also be available.
Program highlights also include Diversion Pathways connected to the court system, law literacy workshops, life skills training, apprenticeship opportunities, and resilience building programs. All initiatives are strengths based, focusing on progress and positive youth development rather than punishment.
Judge Hicks emphasized the urgency of this effort: “Too often, youth meet our systems at their hardest moments. This Center meets them with coaching, consistency, commitment, opportunity, support, and real world skills so they can earn credentials, build confidence, and contribute to their communities.”
What sets this initiative apart is its foundation. The Center is made possible entirely through philanthropic contributions from individuals and organizations committed to the well being of Hinds County youth. No taxpayer dollars or government funds are used.
The launch of the Youth Diversion & Enrichment Center signals a shift in how Jackson is addressing youth challenges, moving from reactive measures to proactive, community driven solutions. By providing education, wellness, and workforce opportunities under one roof, the Center represents a vital investment in the city’s future.
Community members are invited to attend the Open House and Ribbon Cutting to tour the facility, meet program leaders, and learn how to partner or volunteer. Schools, nonprofits, businesses, and faith-based organizations are encouraged to explore collaborations, from internship pipelines to on-site workshops.
The Hinds County Children’s Coalition views this project as a cornerstone of prevention and early intervention efforts. Director Cassandra Wilson noted the Center’s success will depend on continued partnerships with those believing in the potential of Jackson’s youth.
With the opening of the Youth Diversion & Enrichment Center, Jackson takes an important step toward ensuring its young people are not defined by mistakes but given the tools and encouragement to rise above them.
For more information, email hindscountychildrenscoalition@gmail.com.
