Jennifer Lambert’s life journey has reflected the power of mentorship, advocacy, and dedication to at-risk youth. From her early days as a stay-at-home mom to her current role as Community Youth Advocate (CYA) Program Coordinator at Family Advocates, Lambert has consistently prioritized the well-being and development of youth in her community.
Her path to advocacy began unexpectedly. After working a corporate job, Lambert shifted her focus to family life, spending five years as a stay-at-home mom before becoming a substitute teacher.
“I didn’t pursue this, it was just the path my life took,” she said. “After I got married and had my first child, everything changed: my goals, ambitions, and priorities. I went from working at a corporate job to becoming a stay-at-home mom and eventually a substitute teacher for over 10 years.”
This role exposed her to the challenges children face and sparked her passion for youth mentorship.
“During that time, I got deeply involved with youth-serving organizations and poured myself into my own children and their activities,” she said. “That’s where my passion for children grew. I realized not every child had the same upbringing or opportunities I had or that I was giving my children. So, I joined the PTA and volunteered for 4-H, serving on the PTA for 19 years. My focus shifted to helping children feel supported.”
Lambert’s involvement in youth-focused organizations deepened when she became a 4-H volunteer and later joined Family Advocates. Initially a CYA volunteer, Lambert eventually took on the role of Youth Wellness Court Coordinator, jumping into the deep end to learn and navigate the complexities of the juvenile justice system to advocate for youth in need.
Family Advocates, based in La Porte County, provides comprehensive support to children and families through programs like CYA. The initiative pairs at-risk youth with trained volunteers who mentor and advocate for them, helping them build confidence and make better life choices.
“My role is to advocate for the youth I’m assigned to and help communicate their feelings and wishes effectively," she said. "If they can’t speak up for themselves, I do it for them. I work on life skills, provide educational support, and expose them to pro-social activities and community service."
Lambert also advocates for their safety and makes sure their rights aren’t denied. This involves attending their meetings- whether it’s probation meetings, court, or school meetings- and connecting them to resources.
"I check in on their grades and provide tutoring if needed. At Family Advocates, we have a Learning Lab where volunteers can help youth with their education,” Lambert said. “There are many teens who wish they had someone to listen to them and help guide them.”
She noted the impact of mentors in providing educational support, life skills, and opportunities for personal growth.
One of Lambert’s most impactful projects was a raised garden bed initiative funded by a grant from the Master Gardeners. Designed to provide a hands-on, therapeutic experience for youth and families served by Family Advocates, the project created a shared space where participants could plant, maintain, and harvest crops. The garden not only allowed children and teens to learn new skills but also provided fresh produce for their families, fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency.
“It wasn’t just about gardening- it was about teaching responsibility, offering a safe space, and giving youth and families something they could maintain and enjoy,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see kids pulling weeds, harvesting crops, and taking them home to their families.”
Lambert also manages the Youth Wellness Court (YWC), a six- to 12-month deferral program designed for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The program integrates mental health services, school support, and community engagement to help participants achieve stability and success.
“Mental health is a top priority,” she said. “The goal is to provide the services they need to address their challenges and help them thrive.”
Lambert’s advocacy work is not without challenges. Limited resources and systemic barriers often hinder efforts to provide comprehensive support. However, collaboration with local service providers helps fill these gaps. Lambert works tirelessly to connect youth and families to resources, advocating for safe environments and fair treatment.
“The most rewarding part of my work is helping youth see their potential and look beyond their circumstances,” she said.“When they find success, it’s an incredible feeling. Youth deserve respect just like anyone else, and it’s fulfilling to know I’ve helped make a difference in their lives.”
As a lifelong resident of La Porte, she takes pride in contributing to the community through activities like Arts in the Park, farmers markets, and downtown beautification projects.
“Living in La Porte County means being part of a supportive and welcoming community,” she said. “I want my children to grow up proud of where they’re from.”
Her advice to her younger self would be to keep moving forward, always, and learn from setbacks.
“They make you better and help you end up where you’re meant to be,” she said.
Lambert encourages others to get involved. Family Advocates offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from mentorship to educational support.
“You don’t need to take on a case to make a difference,” she said. “There are so many other ways to help, like building beautification, landscaping, donating craft supplies or snacks, or sharing your skills.”
Jennifer Lambert’s life revolves around youth, both professionally and personally. As a mother of four, she finds joy in family-centered activities, especially those that connect with her children’s interests. A perfect day for Lambert includes spending quality time with her family and engaging in their shared passions.
As active participants in 4-H, the family cares for a variety of animals, including chickens, ducks, goats, rabbits, and even a mini horse. Fair week is a highlight, with the family spending their days fully immersed in the event. For Lambert, 4-H is a rewarding opportunity to teach her children responsibility, life skills, and the importance of caring for living things. It’s an experience she finds both educational and deeply rewarding.
Jennifer Lambert’s commitment to youth advocacy and mentorship has left a positive legacy on La Porte County. Through her work with Family Advocates, the Youth Wellness Court, and 4-H, she has empowered countless children to overcome challenges and discover their potential. While success is often measured by achieving goals, for Lambert, it’s being a steady presence for the youth she serves, inspiring them to believe in themselves and pursue brighter futures.