I believe the future is only decided by one being, who is the most-highest of all beings, God. I believe that my future is well-earned by a 360 which turned my life around. In 2008, I was arrested in Memphis, TN. I was picked up by the Memphis Police Department and was sent to the juvenile detention center. There I awaited court, and when it finally came, I was placed in DCS custody at the age of 16. I wasn’t told that I would be placed in another city or place. But I, as well as five other Memphians, was placed at Mountain View Youth Development Center in Dandridge, TN. Based on my charges I was assigned to Program 1—four to six months.

During the program, I signed myself into the Mock Trial program, which I thought was something that might make my time go by faster. While in this program a judge for the Jefferson County Justice Center by the name of Ben Strand assisted us with the task of learning the law.

Shortly after, Judge Strand as well as my counselors and others spoke to me about my college options. I liked those options and decided college was the route for me - specifically, studying law. We went over different procedures on where to go from there.

Finally, in April, 2009, I was released from Mountain View to Omni Visions. This new program placed me in foster care with a great family and provided me with all of my needs. They helped me with applying to college and I even had fun with other kids in care. I must admit that there is much thanks to be given to the people who helped me get where I am today, and I’m more than grateful for it. I believe I am going to be great one day, and I thank the ones who assisted in getting me there. I believe the future is decided by one being; hopefully that future is bright for me. Thank you to Omni Visions, Judge Strand, Heather Sartia, and all who made this possible. 

by Alonzo C.

Note: Alonzo is currently living in an Omni Visions treatment home in Oak Ridge, TN, and is excelling in his first semester at Pellissippi State Community College.