For Release: Friday, January 19th, 2000
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO ANNOUNCES JUVENILE MENTORING PROGRAM GRANT FOR THE EXETER GROUP

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the Exeter Group has been awarded a $210,000 Juvenile Mentoring Program (JUMP) Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. JUMP grants are used to match at risk youth with responsible adults for tutoring, job training, and community service activities.

"I am pleased that these funds will be used to help young people stay out of trouble. As a former law enforcement officer, I know the value of mentoring programs in keeping kids away from criminal activity," Costello said. "I will continue to work to provide resources that improve public safety."

Located in Carbondale, the Exeter Group works with mostly rural, at risk youth throughout southern Illinois. It was one of 28 recipients from a pool of 534 nationwide applicants to receive a grant.

###