Read Our Employee Interview
Juvenile Justice Spotlight
Mark Hamlett, Jr.
Chief of Secure Programs
Agency: DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS)
Office Location: Washington, DC
1. What was your inspiration for getting into the Juvenile Justice field?
“I was born and raised in what some folks called an ‘At-risk neighborhood’ but what I like to call an ‘At Promise neighborhood’. It was there I met Nathaniel Brown who worked at the local recreation center. He was a teacher to me and so many others. He helped raise us to be the best people we can be and keep us out of trouble. He saved my life as my mom had to work two jobs, but he was there continuing to be a wonderful shelter during the storms outside of the rec center.
After starting in the Human Services field, I wanted to get myself to be more like Mr. Brown and was fortunate enough to get a job working with kids which is exactly what I wanted to do. It was there I began to always ask myself, ‘What am I going to do differently to have the maximum impact?’”
2. Tell us a part of your job that really excites and invigorates you?
“Really, every aspect of what I do. I absolutely love pouring myself into the kids I work with and my staff. Everyday is an opportunity…to change, to encourage, and to develop. I see the good in every situation. I’m solution driven in trying to get the right answers for these kids. I feel the same way today, 27 years later, than the day I started.”
3. What are your higher career aspirations?
“Short term: to play my role at DYRS and create the most healthy and safe environment for staff and youth that’s conducive for each. I look to create a culture of care, respect, and value at both ends.
Long-term: to continue to my efforts to train, coach, and assist agencies around the country in juvenile justice and criminal justice reform. I’d like to go into agencies and add even a small amount in an area to make them better. I just love serving.”
4. Who were your mentor(s) in the field? What is something that they taught you that you've carried with you throughout your career?
“I wish we had more time to tell you of ALL my mentors. I’ve worked with the best. Summary of what I’ve learned…and the list is exhaustive…is that it’s about character, my commitment, my passion, and my credibility. And to add a prerequisite of influence when it comes to leadership.”
5. If you could give advice to someone starting out in the field, what would it be?
“Listen. Absorb. Be a sponge. Learn as much as you can every day. Even during your most challenging days, look to make it a learning experience. Be consistent, have great character. Master the art of communication. Look at everyday as an opportunity to change their lives as well as your own.”
6. What's been your most memorable experience since you began working in Juvenile Justice?
“The most memorable moments are when the youth and my staff meet or exceed their goals. Whether it’s for a promotion for staff or when the kids are graduating from high school, I love these experiences. After 33 years, I have gotten passed the ‘Consent Decree” – which created oversight for conditions for confinement – to finally pass.”
7. If you could give words of wisdom to a youth currently involved in the Juvenile Justice system, what would they be?
“You are much better than your worst decision. You’re much greater than your poorest choice. Allow for the reset and pivot to believe for yourself that you’re not here by accident. You’re here to have a positive impact on your community. Walk in your purpose. Walk in your destiny. I’m an example of that. Somebody believed in me, so I believe in you.”
8. How can the current state of Juvenile Justice improve?
“I believe Juvenile Justice industries and organizations bear the burden of ‘the fix’ but it’s a shared opportunity. I feel we have to embrace all the moving parts and build communities in the process. Invest in the environments that the kids are in. Everybody has to have a seat at the table and a voice in the room to do their part.”
9. What major contribution do you feel you have made in Juvenile Justice?
“I’ve had a lasting impact on the young people I served in direct care. I also have a huge impact on the staff I’ve trained and coached all over the country. My good and their good has helped to make them great! Staying in my purpose has allowed me the opportunity to speak and work with the greatest minds in the Juvenile Justice field and I’m proud to be part of something greater than me in JJ Reform. We’re trending in the right direction, and I am glad to be a part of it all, being seen and heard. I’m so grateful.”
10. When you're not working, what do you enjoy doing?
“I enjoy spending time with my family, including my 6-month young granddaughter. It’s a different kind of love, and that’s amazing. I enjoy riding my motorcycle, golf (at least I attempt to), and vacationing.”