LAWTON, Okla. (KSWO) - Justice-involved youth in Oklahoma are getting a boost through the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth (OCCY). The OCCY in partnership with the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA), launched a new program to provide specialized training for mentors who worked with them.

The program will provide mentor training through mentoring central.

The project aims to prepare mentors to support mentees in building resilience, setting goals, and fostering hope -- key elements for helping youth involved in the juvenile justice system achieve positive outcomes.

Mentoring Central, a division of iRT, is known for its web-based and instructor-led training modules designed to strengthen mentor-mentee relationships.

"Our goal is to give every mentor the tools they need to feel confident and capable in their role," said Caitlin Merritt, community planner for OCCY's Office of Planning and Coordination. "With continued training and support, we aim to strengthen Oklahoma's mentoring programs and improve outcomes for our youth."