On March 22, 2023, Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago visited the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County. Accompanying the Prosecutor were members of Operation Hope in Monmouth Team (OHIM) that included AP Lindsay Ashwal and MCPO’s facility dog Surf and his handler Melissa Boege from Catholic Charities. Prosecutor Santiago spoke with the student leaders about self-care, accountability and how each child can become a leader no matter their beginnings. AP Ashwal and members of the OHIM multi-disciplinary team from Hope Sheds Light and NJ Reentry discussed with the students the importance of being accountable for their words and behavior, and how to hold other people accountable as well. Melissa explained the steps she took to be accountable for Surf’s training and certification. Surf did a demonstration for the students and greeted the group.
The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office’s Operation Hope in Monmouth Team (OHIM), under the leadership of Prosecutor Santiago and in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County, created a leadership program called Student Leaders of Hope. This program is designed to break the cycle of addiction and inspire the next generation of leaders. The goal is to teach students different leadership and wellness strategies, strengthen their self-esteem and life skills, and inspire them to consider a career in law enforcement. Different community leaders are invited to meet with the students during each session to explain their leadership journey and the role that different leadership skills play in their lives.
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