ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Seraida Pemberton-Leonard, Director of Reclassering Aruba, says the island needs a comprehensive national strategy to address the challenges facing at-risk youth and provide them with better opportunities for the future.
In a recent interview, Pemberton-Leonard explained that Reclassering works intensively with young people under its supervision through guidance and rehabilitation programs designed to promote positive behavioral change and personal stability.
The organization provides individualized support tailored to each young person’s specific needs. Depending on the severity of the issues identified, contact may range from weekly meetings to several sessions each month. The primary focus is on behavioral improvement and prevention.
In addition, Reclassering offers group guidance sessions covering topics such as anger management, positive and negative peer influences, responsible decision-making, and building a more positive outlook on life.
According to Pemberton-Leonard, one of the greatest challenges is supporting young people who face multiple social and personal difficulties. She noted that the best solution is often to temporarily remove a young person from a harmful environment and place them in a safe setting where specialized treatment and support can be provided. However, Aruba currently lacks a juvenile correctional institution capable of offering that type of intervention.
She also pointed out that when young offenders leave KIA, there are insufficient age-specific rehabilitation and support programs available. As a result, many return to the same environments that contributed to their negative behavior.
Pemberton-Leonard emphasized that meaningful change requires cooperation across multiple sectors. She stated that youth challenges are often linked to a combination of social issues, educational difficulties, family circumstances, and financial concerns.
For that reason, she believes Aruba Needs National Strategy for At-Risk Youth that brings together government agencies and social organizations to address the root causes and create real opportunities for young people.
