Rock climbing inspires change for residents of the Juvenile Treatment Center in South Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Youth housed at the Juvenile Treatment Center (JTC) in South Lake Tahoe were recently treated to a unique experience. Through a partnership with the El Dorado County Office of Education (EDCOE), Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC), and the El Dorado County Probation Department, the LTCC Wilderness Education and Outdoor Leadership program brought a 40-foot rock climbing wall into the JTC.

The youth, who attend the Blue Ridge Court School housed in the JTC, were able to challenge their skills and comfort level on the wall.

The student population consists of court-incarcerated youth that ranges between grades six and 12. The Court School Program team members, in partnership with the Probation team, are dedicated to creating safe and productive learning environments where positive experiences enrich student alternatives and choices. They also strive to create a positive and productive learning environment that promotes social and emotional skill development by engaging students in activities that improve self-esteem, help students learn to interact in a positive manner with others, and utilize appropriate conflict resolution, anger management, and decision-making strategies.

“This is fantastic for the youth. The more activities they have are definitely good for their mental health, as well as bonding between the youth and staff,” said Dr. Chapman, doctor for the JTC.

The youth immediately jumped in line to utilize the wall and it wasn’t long before the first youth reached the top. Other youth quickly followed suit and they spent the next few hours challenging their skills in new ways. Damion Estrada and Savanna Thomas, expert rock climbers with LTCC, were able to share their expertise with the youth.

“This is very positive. They are learning some things about each other, and it shows that they can listen to instructions from other people,” said Dustin Wekekind, an AOD Counselor.

The youth had plenty of support from EDCOE and Probation team members, community members, and Encompass Youth volunteers.

Lake Tahoe Community College’s President, Jeff DeFranco, also attended and stated, “I’m happy to see this event act as a big confidence builder for the youth. This event is good for their development, as well as helping the youth gain confidence and trust.”

The youth and staff had a playful competitive race to the top of the wall. Immediately evident was the peer support the youth provided to each other by consistently cheering each other on, as well as helping give direction on the next best move.

J. Schindler, a Probation Officer, stated, “This event has been great for skill-building, encouraging each other, and confidence-building.”

The youth were able to practice and acknowledge their leadership skills, gain personal confidence from the achievement of climbing the wall, as well as overcome their fear of heights.

“This is definitely an event that is positive and promotes self-esteem building, trust, confidence, and comradeship," said Encompass Youth member Tina Miranda. "It was amazing to watch the teamwork and how the youth helped each other.”

The youth were quoted saying, “I had a great time,” “This is really cool. I’ve never done this before and I didn’t think I could do it” and “I really like this and it really pushed my comfort level, but I’m down with it.”

“Not only does this make the youth happy, but it's great for team building and growing self-esteem,” said Sally Williams, a mental health consultant.

Carey Buchanan, EDCOE’s Principal of Alternative Programs, and Shane Reynolds, LTCC’s Director of the Incarcerated Student Program, planned for this event two years ago, but the event was delayed because of the impact from Covid-19 and the Caldor Fire. Carey and Shane noted that this event was a long-time coming, and they were elated to finally host it.

“These types of events really allow students to focus on their social-emotional wellbeing," said Carey. "It provides opportunity for leadership skills, peer support, overcoming fear, and learning to trust. All skills our students need.”

Both Shane and Carey said they hope to make this an annual event. For more information regarding EDCOE’s programs and services, visit edcoe.org.