Detention centers like Camp Scott in Santa Clarita are closing because of declining numbers I first got incarcerated when I was 14 years old My friend had stole some cherries; the police came-- 4 or 5 units The new idea is for young people to avoid detention, or if needed put them in supportive, home- like settings closer to their families.

Makeva was in and out of detention until she was 18.

But caring adults changed her life.

Mr. Fred Williams--he was my probation officer and he got me emancipated.

Makeva also found Akuyoe Graham and the Spirit Awakening writing program.

Yes, I wanted to create a space where young people were free to be brilliant, so that when you had a memory, it became something that empowered you, and not victimized you.

Tell me about when you first met Makeva.

She was combative and yet I was struck by her ability to articulate her feelings.

In the writing program, I was able to express a lot of my anger- I was talking about my child- hood How did you start building your life after that?

I had met up with another girl who I was incarcerated with Sh e was in a transitional housing program that helped you with transportation, clothes, everything.

And I moved to my own place You have to want it for yourself you have to believe in yourself.

If we can divert some of the money that goes into incarceration into communities, then I think that investment would be better served.

I have two kids-- a 3-year-old & a 7-year-old.

You don't get a manual about how to be a mom, you learn as you go.

She [Makeva] made a $5,000 donation toward Spirit Home She said, "I want to make sure there are spaces, safe spaces.

fo r the girls coming after me."

So, I love you, Makeva.

I love you too, you know.

Thank you both, for sharing your life... ...and your heart.

To learn more about Spirit Awakening, please go to our website.

For PBS SoCal, I'm Bonnie Boswell.