For the last few years, students from university wards and other campus organizations, such as the singing group From the Heart, have worked with youth from the Juvenile Correction Center in St. Anthony through Firesides, talent shows, Sunday school services, and other events providing the opportunity to associate with students, discuss gospel principles and listen to musical numbers that invite the spirit into their lives.

The facility has a capacity of 140 and is a state-run program for juveniles ages 12 to 19. Offenses range from simple probation violations to something as serious as aggravated manslaughter.

Beverly Wilder, program manager at the JCC, said the facility’s purpose is “to provide community protection, teach them accountability, community restoration and competency development.”

Tom Erickson, a local Latter-day Saint volunteer, has worked closely with ministers of other faiths in providing activities for the Juvenile Ministries program.

“What these kids need are role models,” Erickson said. “BYU-Idaho students are showing them that you can move on in life and get an education, that you can have fun without getting into trouble. [BYU-I students] are more their age than most of us here.”

Jonathan “J” Kvarfordt, a senior from Idaho Falls, is a member of the singing group From The Heart and who visited the JCC on more than one occasion.

Kvarfodt, who has worked with troubled teens in the past, said that going to meet with the kids has been a wonderful experience.

“Music can touch people in ways nothing else can,” Kvarfrodt said. “It’s also fun to talk with them afterward and get to know them.”