https://www.nj.gov/njyrs/enlightenment/
EnlightenMENT is a peer-to-peer mentoring program created to authentically engage with and support youth dealing with a range of experiences in the foster care system. Youth are matched with a peer navigator that will offer advice, guidance, and empowerment strategies with a genuine approach. Navigators that meet you where you are and ARE HERE FOR YOU!
All young people, ages 14-21, who are in out of home placement and reside in the following nine counties: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Union, are eligible to participate in the program. Priority will be given to those youth who have been in placement 18 months or less. For young people who are 18-21 years old, eligibility is open to those who reside in the nine counties listed above and have agreed to receive voluntary adolescent services from CP&P. This would include young adults attending college, in their own or share apartment, and/or receiving the Independent Living Stipend.
Frequency and duration of services are flexible to meet the needs of the youth. On average, Peer Navigators and youth have contact twice a month. Contacts can vary as the youth moves through the program and can be as frequent as once per week. On average, youth are in the program for one year; however, services can be extended based on need and goal status.
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Referrals can be made directly to the program by youth, their caregivers, CP&P caseworker, law guardian, CASA worker, the CMO, schools or other supports in a young person’s life. Youth who are interested and eligible will be matched with a Peer Navigator.