The Choice Program at UMBC

Choice's AmeriCorps Members mentor young people. AmeriCorps Members support the organization¿s efforts to 1) disentangle young people from the youth legal system; 2) improve well-being through goal creation and attainment; and 3) increase economic opportunities for young people through vocational training. AmeriCorps Members assist youth by planning and hosting activities including community service, job readiness training, cultural enrichment, and educational support; they also connect youth and families to external resources. Choice is a placement site for AmeriCorps, a national direct service program, through the Governor's Office of Service and Volunteerism. AmeriCorps Members complete a pre-determined number of hours during their term of service with the organization. Service sites are located throughout central Maryland: Baltimore City and Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George¿s Counties. Choice utilizes an anti-racist, community-based, family-centered approach to promote high quality outcomes for young people and families. We engage in a collaborative process of service where young people set goals for themselves and are held accountable by supportive adults along the way. The program¿s approach to youth development is grounded in applied critical race theory and culturally responsive, trauma-informed practices. Choice strives to become an anti-racist organization grounded in several core values: holistic development, belief in humans, and youth-centeredness. While Choice's institutional home is at UMBC's The Shriver Center; AmeriCorps Members' served in local communities.