WALDORF, Md. — Community leaders, law enforcement officials, educators and students gathered at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Charles County Teen Court program, highlighting its long-standing role in giving youth second chances while strengthening the community.
The evening recognized the many individuals and partners who support Teen Court, including members of the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, school resource officers, community judges and student volunteers, along with agencies such as the Maryland Transportation Authority, Department of Natural Resources and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
The ceremony also included the presentation of awards to student volunteers, recognizing their service, leadership and contributions to the program.
Local businesses and community organizations were also acknowledged for their continued investment in the program, highlighting the broad network of support that helps sustain Teen Court’s success.
Charles County State’s Attorney Anthony B. Covington and Hon. Monise A. Stephenson, judge of the Charles County Circuit Court, were also in attendance, acknowledging the dedication of those involved and the meaningful impact Teen Court continues to have on youth and the broader community.
Teen Court serves youth ages 13 to 17 as an alternative to traditional juvenile justice proceedings, allowing participants to be judged by a jury of their peers while volunteers take on roles as jurors, attorneys and mentors.
The program emphasizes accountability, empathy and restorative justice, giving young people the opportunity to accept responsibility for minor offenses without incurring a permanent record while remaining connected to their community.
Throughout the evening, the community reflected on the program’s impact, emphasizing its role in guiding youth, supporting families and building stronger connections across Charles County.
The evening’s keynote speaker, Nia Whitney, a graduating senior and longtime Teen Court participant, reflected on her personal experience and growth through the program.
Whitney described entering the Charles County Courthouse for the first time as intimidating, but said that quickly shifted as she began working alongside other students.
“We collaborated in a way that I had never seen before,” Whitney said.
She said Teen Court offers more than consequences, giving youth an opportunity for reflection and support.
“It is not merely a consequence for a crime, but a period of reflection and support,” she said.
Whitney credited the program with helping her gain confidence and perspective, adding that even those who serve as volunteers leave with lasting lessons.
Following the keynote, Teen Court Coordinator Sarah Vaughn, who has led the program for 18 years, was recognized by the community for her leadership and long-standing commitment to the program.
Those in attendance acknowledged Vaughn’s role in shaping and sustaining Teen Court over nearly two decades, crediting her with helping grow its reach and ensuring its continued impact on youth across Charles County. Many pointed to the consistency of the program and its ability to evolve over time as a direct reflection of her dedication.
Vaughn took time during her closing remarks to thank the many individuals, volunteers and organizations who have supported Teen Court throughout the years, emphasizing that the program’s success is built on a strong network of community involvement.
She recognized everyone from law enforcement partners and educators to student volunteers and families, noting that each plays a role in helping guide youth through the program and beyond.
Vaughn closed the ceremony by reinforcing the program’s mission and the responsibility carried by those involved.
“Let’s keep the fire of Teen Court burning brightly,” Vaughn said. “So others can rely on its warmth.”
Her remarks reflected the broader message of the evening — that Teen Court is not just sustained by one person or group, but by a community committed to supporting its youth.
Field trips and hands-on experiences were highlighted as a key part of Teen Court’s impact, giving students opportunities to learn outside the courtroom and connect with their community.
Local partners, including La Tolteca La Plata, were recognized for hosting participants and supporting those experiences. Marcos Magana, was also honored during the ceremony for his volunteer service, recognizing the important work of the program and the positive impact Vaughn has had on youth in the community.
Speakers throughout the program pointed to the lasting impact Teen Court has had on both participants and the broader community, noting how the program helps reduce repeat offenses while building confidence, accountability and leadership skills among youth. Many emphasized that the program not only supports respondents, but also strengthens the volunteers who serve, giving them real-world experience in communication, decision-making and responsibility.
The program’s collaborative approach — bringing together law enforcement, schools, families and community organizations — was highlighted as a key reason for its success over the past 25 years. Attendees noted that Teen Court creates a space where young people are held accountable while still being supported, leading to outcomes that benefit both the individual and the community.
As the program marks its milestone anniversary, the community emphasized that Teen Court remains a vital resource in Charles County, helping guide youth toward better choices while fostering a culture of empathy, responsibility and second chances.
The program’s impact was evident in the strong turnout, with the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center filled with community members, partners and supporters who continue to stand behind its mission and the youth it serves.
Learn More, Volunteer And Support Teen Court
Teen Court is always seeking student volunteers and community members willing to support local youth, serve as mentors and help strengthen the program’s impact across Charles County.
For more information, including upcoming events and how to participate, visit ccso.us/community/youth-outreach/teen-court/ or contact the Charles County Teen Court Coordinator, Sarah Vaughn at VaughanS@ccso.us.
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