About U-CAN
What is U-CAN?
U-CAN is a court-based mentoring program that provides trained and screened volunteer mentors to select individuals in the criminal and family courts who would benefit from and are receptive to mentoring.
These are individuals who may be at risk of entering or returning to the justice system. Through structured mentoring, accountability, and consistent support, U-CAN helps participants build stability, purpose, and a path forward.
More than 80% of participants who enter the program successfully graduate—and most go on to live in the community, work, pay taxes, and support their families.
Combining Compassion and Accountability
Our Model
U-CAN was created as a means of assisting struggling youth. It combines compassion, structure and tough love in a unique and highly effective strategy.
For those who complete the program, charges may be reduced or dismissed entirely, allowing them to move forward without a criminal record.
How It Started
U-CAN was the brainchild of Judge Andra Ackerman, who grew up in foster care and saw herself in the directionless, traumatized young men and women coming before her in court. Check out her inspiring story here.
Participating Courts
U-CAN has partnered with courts across New York State and continues to expand.
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Albany County Court
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Albany Family Court
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Cohoes City Court
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Hudson City Court
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Schenectady City Court
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Schenectady Family Court