DJJ and Community Tree Center Aim to Help At-Risk Youth

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and the Oconee County-based nonprofit, Community Tree Center, run a program aimed at improving the future of at-risk youth. The program, led by community services specialist Bethany Woodard, focuses on keeping children out of the justice system through community service. Woodard believes in the potential of these young individuals and partners with Sgt. Charles Mulwee, the founder of the nonprofit, to guide them. Mulwee engages the youth in community work and encourages them to reflect on their actions. He aims to show them that their choices have significant consequences. Several children have already graduated from the program, demonstrating its potential to guide them towards a better path.