Former foster youth turned mentor says JCC A’s Archers program offers stability for Bronx young people

Anthony Robinson, project program coordinator for JCC A’s Archers program, described the nonprofit’s mentorship and reentry supports for young people who experienced foster care or juvenile-justice involvement.

Robinson said Archers is now in its third year and provides mentoring, court reports, advocacy and job placement for people aged about 18 to 24 at JCC A’s Bronx location. "We meet our clients in the community," he said, describing meetings in parks, at movies and other locations so mentors can "meet you where your daily interactions are."

Tyreek Perkins, a program participant and mentee, said the program changed his life, giving him confidence and practical support. "Anthony has been my biggest motivator and supporter," Perkins said. "No one can get your job done but you" — advice he said has helped him apply for work and school.

Robinson said referrals are accepted through a short form on the organization’s website and by direct outreach: "You could find a referral on our website, jccany.org ... name, date of birthday, and I'll reach out to you or one of my own mentors will reach out to you," he said. Robinson also emphasized the need for stable placements and supportive adults; Perkins echoed that stability makes it possible for youth to focus on treatment plans and future goals.

The segment noted a broader shortage of foster homes in New York City and framed Archers as a community-based program that emphasizes stability and lived-experience mentoring. The hosts closed the segment with contact information: jccny.org for program details.

The interview highlighted mentoring as a transformative practice for justice-impacted and system-involved youth and stressed that ongoing support after program exit is critical to long-term success.