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About Us

Saving Children at Risk Services (S.C.A.R.S) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization founded and operated by Ms. Alicia Johnson and Ms. Chyshena Coleman.

MEET OUR FOUNDERS

Alicia Johnson

My philosophy is that all youths do learn. I believe that Education is society’s first priority. Youths and staff members at S.C.A.R.S. (Saving Children at-Risk Services) will meet high expectations for achievement and success by engaging in challenging and relevant work. I also believe that a supportive work environment will enable youths and staff members to demonstrate mutual respect so youths can reach their highest potential to become life-long learners. Open and honest lines of communication are also needed to build trust and excellence. As an educator, I strive to incorporate these beliefs into all aspects of the learning process. In doing so, I hope to provide the youth in my care with an environment where they can be successful.

For the past 12 years I’ve worked with educators in St. Charles Parish Public Schools. I am indeed a product of St. Charles Parish Schools and a homeowner here as well. Our core business at S.C.A.R.S is to help support, guide and nurture youths to become successful young people. My focus is to improve life's situation by helping youths to become a better “You.” I have earned a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Master's Degree in Nonprofit Management and Leadership, National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), and Student Advocate. My goal is to reach youths through real-life skills and also provide a home-like environment where it will enable youths to become more responsible, productive citizens and enthusiastic life-long learners. I have many years of experience working with behavior challenging students such as: Autism, Tourette syndrome, ADD, ADHD, ODD, Developmental Delayed, Behavior Disordered, Learning Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Emotionally Disturbed.

I have standards of excellence for our youths in making sure they are committed to knowing, fulfilling and sharing the achievements in their daily lives. In my present position, I contribute ideas that help improve the services provided to our youths; and I work together with a team to find positive solutions when inappropriate concerns arise. At S.C.A.R.S., we will provide a safe environment for our at-risk youths who are struggling with substance abuse, bullying, have run away, dropouts, are foster children, homeless, abused or neglected, etc. who are in need of emergency care and support to get on the right track. Youths will be taught anger management skills and receive counseling to deal with issues of trauma. S.C.A.R.S is determined to make positive social changes in the young people of St. Charles Parish. I am committed to guiding, supporting, nurturing, and teaching our youths to make better life decisions hopefully to prevent them from going into the prison pipeline.

CHYSHENA COLEMAN

Chyshena Coleman is a life long resident of St. Charles Parish. She is also a loving mother of four beautiful children. She presently works at Chateau Living Center in which she has been employed for the past 15 1/2 years where she also enjoys working with the elderly. During her nursing career she has worked as a floor nurse, ADON, and a MDS coordinator. Ms. Coleman is presently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Nursing. Chyshena was raised in the household with troubled youth in which she saw first hand how a little love, patience and support a child receives helps changes one's life for the better. She is a dedicated parent, eager and ready to help make a difference in many of our youth's lives.

Board of Directors

Beverly Collins, President

 

Ralph Young, Vice-President

 

Shannon Knowles, Secretary

 

Sharon Bolden, Treasurer

Board Members

Arolyn Honor
Richard Cheri
Dr. Yacara Tabb
Jesse White
Charles Johnson, Sr.