Alderman TJ Mayfield Launches Groundbreaking DREAM Initiative to Combat Youth Crime in Vicksburg

Vicksburg, Miss.— In a bold andvisionary move, Alderman Thomas TJ Mayfield is proud toannounce the launch of the DREAM initiative, a comprehensive program designed to tackle youth crime and provide meaningful opportunities for young adults in Vicksburg. With a deep commitment to transforming the lives of local youth, Mayfield introduces Development and Rehabilitation through Education and Mentorship (DREAM) as a beacon of hope for the community.

“Since taking office five months ago, I have been driven bythe urgent need to address the crime issue that plagues our young adults,” stated Alderman Mayfield. “It is heartbreaking to witness the promising young men andwomen I once taught, now entangled in crime. They deserve a chance to find their way back to society through rehabilitation and support.”

Recognizing the intersection of crime with poverty and lack ofeducation, the DREAM program will partner with the Youth Development Center, Hinds Community College, and Heavenly Hands. These collaborations aim to offer free or low-cost educational services and job training to individualsaged 18-25, empowering them with the skills necessary for asuccessful future.

“Education is a cornerstone of DREAM, but mentorship isequally vital,” Mayfield emphasized. “We need mentors toguide our youth, holding them accountable while providing the positive reinforcement they desperately need. I am a full supporter of Chief Penny Jones and the Vicksburg Police Department but as a community we must be more proactive in helping our hardworking officers prevent crimes. “

The initiative has garnered support from key community entities including District Attorney Ricky Smith, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, the Vicksburg Police Department,the Vicksburg Fire Department, the Ninth DistrictIntervention Court, and Warren County Youth Court. Together, they form a formidable alliance to address the root causes of youth crime and facilitate pathways to redemption.

“This program sees to stand in the gap for the lost technical and vocational skills of the last generation,” Mayfield added. “Although college is a great choice for many, we are seeking to prepare our next generation of carpenters, welders, truck drivers, electricians, and machinists. I am a firm believer that people who have something to lose will often think twice before they make bad decisions. DA Smith can court order some offenders who are deemed suitable for the program.”

Starting January 2025, applications for the DREAM program will be available at the Youth Development Center. “We cannot afford to divide our resources any longer,” said Mayfield. “This is our moment to harness educationalopportunities for workforce development and fight crime simultaneously. With the forthcoming construction of our new port, we must prepare our community now, not after the ribbon is cut.”

Alderman Mayfield remains steadfast in his dedication tofostering a thriving environment for Vicksburg’s youngpeople. “I will continue to advocate for initiatives that nurture our families and secure a brighter future for all,” he concluded.