Wagner's Youth Facility

The History

The young male in prison was one of Kolbe's main focus. Separating them from the adult male population became priority number one.  Upon assuming management of the prison, male juveniles (Juvenile in Belize is age 17 and under) were held in the Boot camp Section, which was located right in the middle of the prison facility.  They were encircled with contact and influence from the ‘seasoned’ adult male population. There were no counselors assigned to the Boot camp section and neither was there any set rehabilitation staff to conduct any programs for them.  As a consequence, there existed no structured programs in place for them to learn and occupy their time. Their activities were minimal, and as a result, they succumbed to idleness and violence amid much confinement. As such, it was necessary to relocate them to a completely separate area, safer and with minimal dependence on the wider prison and of course, with programs suited to equip them with basic academic, vocational and spiritual skills and knowledge.

With this objective in mind, Kolbe Foundation board chairman, Mr. John Woods, embarked on a mission in seeking assistance from international donors in the construction and development of this new location and program.  With an enormous contribution from Mr. Dick and Bobbi Wagner, (who have also graciously sponsored various non- profit organizations in Belize and around the world), funding was provided to construct the Wagner’s Youth Facility.

The Wagner’s Youth Facility officially opened its gates for its initial intake of seventy- five inmates on February 20, 2004. As noted, the facility was named after its donors- Dick and Bobby Wagner. The facility presently houses two large buildings- one used for housing or sleeping quarters, and the other building used for feeding or conducting family visits. A third building referred to as ‘WYF Trade-line’ is located at the far end of the area and contains four classrooms. This building was further donated by the Wagner's as a follow up donation. To a large degree the Wagner's have adopted the youths in the facility and have sponsored numerous small programs for them.

A new staff was employed to supervise the proper management of the facility.  In addition, counselors, officers, and a welfare staff were transferred so as to ensure that all inmates’ basic needs and concerns were met, whether psychological or physical.  A new schedule of programs was set up for all seventy- five inmates and it remains mandatory for full participation.