[StBernard] Newly released CD symbolizes Louisiana's juvenile justice reforms

[Westley Annis]

Jetson Center for Youth's choir releases CD symbolizing Louisiana's juvenile justice reforms

BATON ROUGE - Jetson Center for Youth (JCY) released a CD of original music written and performed by its choir. JCY is a secure care facility for adjudicated youth near Baton Rouge. The CD, entitled "Sowing Seeds of Love: Jetson Sings/Jetson Speaks," also offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of life at JCY. 

In what may be the nation's first professionally produced recording of music by youth housed at a secure facility, the CD showcases the JCY Rising Stars Choir, a unique partnership of incarcerated youth and staff members. Their talent in singing and songwriting comes to life in a multi-media CD. A look inside and frank discussion by youth about their lives at Jetson may be experienced via a mini-documentary on the same disc. 

"We are delighted that youth and staff worked hand-in-hand to make this project a success," said OYD Deputy Secretary Simon G. Gonsoulin. "Our therapeutic approach to secure care is based on trust between incarcerated youth and the staff who care for them. Building relationships and problem-solving as a team are keys to success. This joint effort won the hearts of both youth and staff. A result of the CD project is that staff and youth throughout the facility are excited and share in the success." 

"This project is proof that Louisiana's efforts to reform juvenile justice are meeting with success," Gonsoulin said. "The CD reflects our core value of partnerships that instill productive and positive changes in our youth. This project would not have been possible without the partnership of members of the community." 

The recording is a collaboration between youth, staff and community partners. No public funds were expended on this project. All the musicians and recording professionals donated their time and services, and the Annie E. Casey Foundation defrayed the discounted cost of duplication of the CD. 

Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco posted tracks from the CD and additional information on her Web site. Citizens can listen to the songs by visiting: www.gov.state.la.us <http://www.gov.state.la.us> . 

The recording is not for sale. It will be given to juvenile justice stakeholders, parents and other interested supporters. For additional information, contact the OYD Communications Office, tel. 225.287.7898, email jgiarrusso at oyd.louisiana.gov or visit www.oyd.louisiana.gov <http://www.oyd.louisiana.gov> .

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