Meet Alcoris
Empowering youth
Alcoris is an 18-year-old who has been actively engaged in our Juvenile Justice Initiative for the past two years. Described as resilient, unique, passionate, and introspective, Alcoris was referred to the program by a peer after being arrested for shoplifting candy from a local department store.
At the time of her enrollment, Alcoris was disillusioned with school, feeling discouraged about her ability to graduate due to credit deficiencies. She was also navigating unhealthy relationships and frequently involved in verbal and physical altercations. Her personal history includes traumatic experiences no young person should have to endure.
From the beginning, Alcoris has been honest about her struggles with emotional regulation and decision-making. She acknowledged knowing right from wrong but lacked the tools to manage her impulses and consider consequences.
Through consistent mentorship, Alcoris has begun to feel seen, heard, and supported.
To date, Alcoris has has had no further involvement with the justice system. She is currently enrolled in the Comprehensive Community Action Program’s (CCAP) Youth Education and Job Training Program, where she is on track to earn her GED in 2025.
At intake, Alcoris’s mother expressed interest in anger management support for her daughter. Throughout her participation in the program mentors have noted her eagerness to learn new coping strategies and praised her progress. Her mentors also observed her use of de-escalation techniques.
Alcoris is increasingly aware of the responsibilities and consequences that come with adulthood. She has expressed frustration with authority figures who misuse their power but has built a trusting and evolving relationship with her mentors, many of whom are Rhode Island State Police Troopers. They continue to leverage her compassionate and helpful nature to foster deeper engagement and self-growth.
The impact of mentoring is evident: Alcoris has demonstrated reduced aggression, improved peer interactions, and no further negative encounters with law enforcement. She consistently attends monthly group mentoring sessions at the Nonviolence Institute or the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Rhode Island. When not in a group setting, she receives one-on-one mentoring focused on goal setting, conflict resolution, and personal development.
Currently, Alcoris is working with her mentor to establish SMART goals for 2025–2026. She has completed a resume, is actively seeking employment, and is scheduled to attend an upcoming Work Readiness orientation, which includes financial literacy training.
Despite ongoing challenges—including unstable housing, a shift in educational goals, her mother’s declining health, and the general stressors of adolescence—Alcoris continues to demonstrate maturity, determination, and a strong commitment to personal growth.