Houston continues to increase funding for youth mentorship program

Houston officials approved additional funding for a mentorship program for people involved in the justice system.

The contract for the Credible Messenger Services mentorship program, in partnership with the Collective Action for Youth, has increased over time to more than $2.6 million.

What this means

The original contract was awarded in 2023 at $475,000 and increased to $2.4 million in 2024. At the April 15 City Council meeting, city officials voted to further increase the cost of the contract to $2.6 million.

Council member Tarsha Jackson said more than 125 people have gone through the program. Jackson, who brought the program to council, said they are rooted in the communities and positioned "to reach, mentor and guide young people."

“This program is not just an investment,” she said. “It is a service, and investment in people, relationships and long-term change.”

How it works

Credible Messengers are mentors who connect with youth and young adults who share similar experiences, typically those who have been impacted by the justice system.

Through Collective Action for Youth, a nonprofit that focuses on transforming systems for youth who have been impacted by the justice system, they process referrals and match eligible clients to a mentor.

“This is more than a public safety initiative; it’s more than investing in community,” council member Tiffany Thomas said. “You have really given individuals an opportunity to dream again.”

City officials said the programs' services result in:

• Increased engagement with programs and services
• Reduction in re-arrests, violations and antisocial behavior
• Increased compliance with court mandates