Jack and Jill Teens Explore the Cost of Decisions During Central Prison Visit
For 24 teens from the East Wake–Johnston Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., the start of a new program year brought an opportunity to see firsthand how decisions can shape a person’s future.
On Sept. 27, the teens and their mothers participated in “The Cost of Decisions,” an educational program through the chapter’s Brilliant Leaders Known (B.L.K.) Success initiative. The program included a tour of Central Prison and a leadership seminar focused on the consequences of poor decision-making.
The group was welcomed by Captain John Raymond and two lieutenants, who guided participants through Central Prison and discussed the realities of incarceration and the choices that can lead someone there. During the seminar, participants explored real-world scenarios involving academic dishonesty, unsupervised gatherings and unauthorized use of a parent’s credit card, discussing how seemingly small decisions can carry lasting academic, financial and legal consequences.
Charlotte Jordan Williams, vice president of the East Wake–Johnston Chapter and director of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction’s Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) program, emphasized the importance of reaching young people early and helping them understand the impact of their choices.
“The true cost of our decisions must be understood long before we make a purchase. We must reach our children early, with the hope that the pipeline to prison becomes a non-factor in their futures. Our specialized program was created to show teens that even for the brightest, most accomplished young people, one bad decision—one moment—can change everything. It can cost them their future. So, before you make that purchase, consider the full cost of your choices. I am deeply grateful for my colleagues and our agency for supporting this critical prevention effort. NCDAC is more than rehabilitation; we are committed to prevention as well.”
The day’s focus on making positive choices continued beyond Central Prison. Williams, Mother Takisha, the chapter’s Teen President and Teen Special Events Chair traveled to R.E.A.C.H. Ministries in Selma to deliver donations supporting foster youth transitioning out of care.
The donations included household items, gas cards, toiletries, feminine hygiene products and bedding to help meet the needs of young people preparing for greater independence.
From understanding the consequences of their choices to supporting young people in their communities, the experience highlighted the importance of leadership, personal responsibility and service. Through initiatives like B.L.K. Success, young people have opportunities to reflect on their decisions and consider how those choices can shape their futures.