Completing the Lake County Veterans Treatment Court was a challenge for Jahla Johnson, but as she walked to the stage of the county government center’s auditorium and heard her family’s cheers, Johnson was grateful for the program.
“Going through this program not only opened up so many opportunities and benefits, but it was just so helpful,” said Johnson, a veteran who served in the Army National Guard for about two and a half years. “It made me feel so accomplished with myself, and it made me feel like I’m better to my family and a better mom to my son.”
Johnson, on Wednesday, was one of the 19 graduates from the Lake County Veterans Treatment Court program, which is overseen by Lake Superior Court Judge Julie Cantrell.
The program, over the course of between 18 and 24 months, aims to provide alternative sentencing to offenders who are veterans. Participants are assigned a mentor throughout the process to help achieve their goals.
Mark Lopez, senior advisor for U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, D-Highland, spoke on behalf of the representative Wednesday. Mrvan was slated to be the graduation ceremony’s keynote speaker, but Lopez said he was absent because Congress is in session.
Lopez recognized Cantrell for her involvement in the program, which has been in Lake County for 11 years. He also expressed his pride for the graduates, saying that as veterans, they’re the foundation of the country’s strength.
“And today, you have shown that same courage again,” Lopez said. “This time, you’re confronting challenges head on, fulfilling your obligation to this court, and committing yourself to growth, accountability and hope.”
The Lake County Veterans Court should be considered the gold standard for how veterans are recognized for their service, Lopez said, adding that it’s been successful at providing treatment and keeping participants connected.
“Your perseverance and your honesty and your courage shouldn’t surprise anyone,” Lopez said. “They are the same qualities that made you heroes in union, and they continue to make you role models for your communities today.”
Cantrell recognized all 19 graduates during Wednesday’s ceremony. She gave graduates gifts and a letter of recognition from Mrvan.
When Cantrell called up Johnson, she congratulated her for the work she’s put toward bettering herself, adding that she’s moved up in management at her job and received a safety certification that could lead to another raise.
“I’m super proud of you and super proud of the fact that you accepted that you need help, and you’re here smiling today,” Cantrell said to Johnson. “You’re a different person today. I told you when I first met you that if you buy into my nonsense, if you drink the Kool-Aid, you will be a different person when you start the program, and you’ve made me proud.”
Following the ceremony, Johnson said she was touched by Cantrell’s words, adding that the judge was there for her throughout the process.
“She believed in me, and I am so extremely grateful for her kindness, for her will and determination for this program, and that she put up with my crap,” Johnson said. “She made me feel like a better person, and she truly does care for all of us and the program.”
Because her experience in the program was positive, Johnson encourages other veterans to reach out to the Lake County Veterans Treatment Court if they need help.
“I was the type of person who never wanted to reach out because I felt like I didn’t need it,” she said. “There’s nothing wrong with needing support.”
mwilkins@chicagotribune.com
