Montgomery County Juvenile Court and Austin Peay State University (APSU) are proud to announce the launch of a new scholarship initiative that will provide life-changing educational opportunities for graduates of the 20/10 Mentorship Program.

After years of successfully mentoring justice-involved youth, program leaders have taken the next step by establishing endowed scholarships to support students who have shown resilience, personal growth, and a commitment to advancing their lives through higher education.

The 20/10 Mentorship Program is a collaborative effort between Montgomery County Juvenile Court and Austin Peay State University that pairs justice-involved youth with student mentors. The program focuses on positive youth development, expanding educational opportunities, and helping young people realize their potential, with the goal of breaking generational cycles, reducing recidivism, and creating pathways to higher education for youth who have demonstrated determination and growth.

"It's not the mistake that defines you; it's how you respond to that mistake," said Judge Kenneth Goble Jr. "Our hope is that with these scholarships, we can invest in these young people and provide them with a vision for their future through higher education."

"Our students serve as the mentors in this program, and they show these young people that a college campus is somewhere they belong," said APSU President Mike Licari. "These scholarships are the next logical step. Higher education is one of the surest ways to change the direction of a life, and that is exactly what this community is investing in."

To introduce the scholarship campaign and discuss its impact, community leaders, donors, and members of the media were invited to attend a kickoff breakfast at the Montgomery County Courts Complex to hear directly from program leaders about the scholarship endowment campaign and learn how they can support the next generation of students.

To date, twenty-six initial donors have pledged over $110,000 dollars to the cause, which will provide four endowed scholarships for youth in the community.

“We have seen what these young people can accomplish when someone believes in them. Now we have a chance to help them take the next step toward their future self. Together, we can be the change!”

For more information about the 20/10 mentorship program or scholarship initiative, contact Ed Moss, Montgomery County Director of Youth Services and Juvenile Court, at elmoss@montgomerytn.gov or (931) 648-5766.