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Teen Court Board
Overview
Holland Teen Court (HTC) was founded in 1991, when Holland City officials and citizens had the vision to launch a Youth Justice System that would empower young people to be leaders in their community. Holland Teen Court was designed to provide youth with the necessary tools to demonstrate the power they have, individually and collectively, to influence others and make positive changes in their own lives and in their community.
Regular Meetings
- 3:45 p.m.
- 2nd Tuesday of every month
- Holland City Hall
270 South River Avenue
Holland, MI 49423
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available before the meetings. Minutes are available following approval. Meeting agendas, packets, and minutes are available here
Current Members
Lena DelReal, Member-at-Large
Shawna Baum, Ottawa County Court
Veronica Salazar, Member-at-Large
Monte White, Ottawa County Sheriff Dept.
Derek Dalman, Member-at-Large
Vern Helder, Teen Court Coordinator
Mikael Salazar, Student Representative
Sydney Ojedis, Student Representative
Tracy Hernandez, Member-at-Large
Joe Soto, Department of Public Safety Services
Esther Fifelski, Director, Human Relations Department, City of Holland
Vision
This vision was shared with:
- City and county law enforcement agencies
- City, county, and state government officials
- The Chamber of Commerce
- Members of the Ottawa County Bar Association
- County and District court officials
- Clubs and agencies with a vested interest in the community
- Holland area school officials
The shared vision and "Army" of Teen Court volunteers continue to empower young and not-so-young people as we enter the 21st Century.
Dispelling Misconceptions
Through the involvement of volunteers and defendants in the HTC program, youth have dispelled the misconception that adolescents are incapable of being responsible, being accountable for their wrongdoing, making appropriate decisions, or handling any type of independence.
It is hoped that the Holland Teen Court will interrupt developing patterns of criminal behavior by promoting feelings of self-esteem, motivation for self-improvement, and the development of a healthy attitude toward authority. HTC challenges youth to perform at their highest level of ability. It places a high priority on educating young people regarding their responsibilities as individuals, family members, and citizens.
Feedback
We invite you to explore the variety of information and resources found on this Holland Teen Court website and encourage you to share your own experiences with Teen Court/Youth Court programs. Any feedback is welcome as we continue to learn daily from one another.
Teen Court began in 1991 as a way to provide 1st-time offenders from the City of Holland a chance to avoid a juvenile criminal record by being tried by their peers.
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Human Relations
Physical Address
270 S River Avenue
2nd Floor
Holland, MI 49423
Phone: 616-355-1328Fax: 616-355-1490