Deputies at the San Marcos Sheriff's Station are working to steer children away from the influence of gangs through the RESPECT program.
RESPECT stands for:
R - responsibility
E - ethics
S - strength
P - perseverance
E - education
C - courage
T - trustworthiness
The eight-week program is held at the Boys and Girls Club in partnership with community groups. It's about building character and uniting communities. 12 students from grades 8 to 12 just graduated from the program.
There are different topics every week. One evening they learned about getting into college and entering the job market. The children heard from Miguel Buclon, a former gang member who is now attending Mira Costa College and volunteering as a Mira Costa Student Ambassador. He urged the children to avoid a life of crime. He discussed how perseverance helped him get to where he is now. He encouraged the kids to take advantage of the program and the various resources available to them. Miguel explained they too can be successful if they take the initiative to work for what they want in life.
Local owners of Chick-fil-A, Adam Hoffman and President of Pacific Western Painting, Tony Hady also spoke to the children about what they look for when interviewing and hiring new employees. They gave the boys pointers to prepare themselves for the interview process and instructions on filling out job applications.
The class ended with students filling out sample job applications, as well as a question and answer with the featured speakers.
If you are parent or teacher and would like to learn more about this program, call the San Marcos Sheriff's Station at (760) 510-5200 and ask for Sergeant Mark Haynesworth.
