The Illinois Judicial Council in conjunction with the Child Protection Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County began a pilot program to provide mentoring to youth who are wards of the Court as they prepare to transition to adulthood. Judges and attorneys have volunteered to meet with the ward mentees and provide guidance and assistance.
Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans and Presiding Judge Patricia M. Martin, assisted in introducing the program by welcoming the participants. They discussed the benefits of the program and encouraged our participation. A rousing presentation was made by Attorney Brunell Donald-Kyei. Attorney Donald-Kyei, once a ward of the State of Illinois, discussed her background and challenges with the audience. She was well received by mentees and mentors alike. Chair Judge William H. Hooks closed out the program.
Our youth need to see and be encouraged by our professional community. Participation in this program will not take up a lot of your time. We ask that you commit to reaching out, whether by telephone, e-mail or in-person to a mentee at least two times a month. If you are interested in participating in this very worthwhile program, please contact Judge Andrea M. Buford through the “Contact Us” feature on the IJC website.