Fulton County Juvenile Court in collaboration with the Department of Arts & Culture is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the ‘Courtyard of Second Chances’, a unique, outdoor space designed to encourage healing and wellness among young adults who pass through the Juvenile Justice Center.
The Courtyard of Second Chances will adopt a design approach that recognizes the impact of trauma on the lives of justice-involved youth.
The unique space is designed to include elements that stimulate the senses – including artwork, plants, and pathways to provide a therapeutic environment. The multi-functional design will incorporate independent quiet areas, an upgraded cafeteria with a dining area, special events space, restorative garden, and play areas. The combination of these designs is intended to create a space that is not only visually pleasing, but also functional and responsive to the needs of young adults in the justice system. In addition, the courtyard will repurpose existing concrete paving to create retaining walls for garden beds and benches, giving these materials a second chance.
“The Courtyard of Second Chances is a reflection of our commitment to providing the highest quality care for the youth in our system,” said Timothy Ezell, Chief Administrative Officer of Fulton County Juvenile Court. “We are thrilled to partner with the Department of Arts & Culture’s Public Art Program to create a space that promotes healing for our youth, and also serves as a valuable addition to the Judge Romae T. Powell Juvenile Justice Center.”
“We are proud to be a part of this exciting partnership with Fulton County Juvenile Court,”said Arts & Culture Director David Manuel. “The ‘Courtyard of Second Chances’ represents an opportunity to demonstrate the power of art and design to improve mental health and well-being. We worked with justice-involved individuals to co-design the mural – creating a space that reflects their experiences and aspirations. We hope…
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