RESPECT Project building trust between deputies and youth in San Marcos

SAN DIEGO (KUSI)- RESPECT Project is an after-school program in the North County, specifically San Marcos and the unincorporated areas of Escondido. RESPECT is an acronym for Responsibility, Ethics, Strength, Perseverance, Education, Courage and Trustworthiness.

Two deputies from the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station created the program in 2014. They mentor students having issues at home, at school, on probation or heading in that direction.

Once a week for three months, deputies and the students meet virtually. They also teach the children accountability by doing community service cleaning local parks.

The goal of the RESPECT Project is to foster dialogue and strengthen relationships between youth and deputies.

When students graduate from the RESPECT Program, the mentoring continues. Deputies connect the students to job training programs, employment opportunities and preparation for college classes.

San Marcos Sheriff’s Station Captain Jason Vickery joined Good Morning San Diego to discuss the program.

For more information, visit https://www.sdsheriff.net/respectproject/