From staff reports LAWTON – The Arvest Foundation recently announced a $25,000 donation to Teen Court, a delinquency prevention program in Lawton that offers an alternative justice system for juveniles facing misdemeanor offenses or traffic citations.
The money will be used to assist with renovating a new, dedicated property for the nonprofit, Arvest Foundation officials said in a news release.
“For more than 30 years, the program has operated successfully without a permanent facility,” they said. “A new facility will allow the organization to expand and provide services more effectively.”
Arvest Business Banking Manager Angela Spradlin and Arvest Business Development Representative Shelly Fields presented a check on behalf of the foundation to Teen Court Board Chair Leigh Smallwood and Director Marcia Frazier.
“Teen Court provides a much-needed service to our community, and we are proud that the Arvest Foundation chose to support the organization,” said Spradlin. “Teen Court’s mission to help prevent delinquency by teaching our children what that road may lead toward is important to building a better future for our community.”
Run by youth volunteers, Teen Court aims to reduce juvenile crime and enhance traffic safety through education and alternative adjudication. The new facility will host traffic court sessions, one-onone mentoring, virtual learning support, education classes, counseling and mentoring.
“‘And it came to pass, it didn’t come to stay.’ I feel that way about the teens we see every week,” said Frazier. “These teens are amazing. They will almost always rise to the occasion if you believe in them. This grant will help us expand our program to meet the needs of these juveniles, so they can be the best they can be.”