For over a decade, Youth Work Programs have been available to youth committed to MEDC. SCDJJ’s long-term facility for youth ages 12-19. The youth work programs provide a realistic work environment where youth fill out an application, are interviewed, and if all goes well, are granted a position in one of the programs.

Youth can work in the Upholstery Design Center or the Young Craftsman’s Shop. They receive training to be able to create one-of-a-kind art pieces such as re-upholstered furniture, Adirondack chairs, sewing crafts, and pen and pencil sets. These products are sold in the Store of Hope located at 3208 Broad River Road in Columbia, SC. Proceeds from the sale of the youth-made products go back into the programs for materials, as well as to the youth. Their earnings are used to pay any restitution owed to victims, and the rest is theirs to keep upon release. These programs equip youth with important job and life skills and provide them practical retail and manufacturing experience.

Store of Hope

Opened in 2012, the “Store of Hope” is a youth-driven retail store for the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, focused on providing specialized trade skills and job-readiness training to young people in long-term commitment with the Agency. The program’s philosophy is rooted in the name itself and is driven by staff, volunteers and community partners who are committed to 

• Helping
• Others
• Prepare for
• Employment.  

SCDJJ offers educational-curriculum programs, such as welding and horticulture. The programs offered at SCDJJ’s Broad River Road Complex in Columbia provide youth with practical job experience and specialized vocational training.

Our Store of Hope promotes and sells the youth-made items, including custom-painted metal Palmetto trees, Adirondack chairs, decorative tiles, wooden bowls, restored furniture and more. Money from all sales is then invested directly back into the vocational programs.

Make a Purchase with a Purpose!