Making an Impact

“Helping the Underdog; those who feel like they weren’t heard or seen” has always been Latawun Bess, Director of Miami-Dade County’s Juvenile Services Department (JSD), calling in life. From a young age, Director Bess knew she wanted to work with at-risk populations. That drive led her to start her career with Miami-Dade County in the Parks Department as a Park Service Aid at West Perrine Park. “I had so much fun working at Parks. It gave me a platform to expose children to different experience they may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in such as dance programs, basketball games, and even visit the historic Gusman Theater” Director Bess affectionally recalls.  After graduating from college, she took a job at “The JAC” (Juvenile Assessment Center) and rose through the ranks, ultimately being appointed Director of the department in February of 2024.  

Director Bess has been playing a crucial role in the lives of Miami-Dade County’s youth throughout her entire career. She explains the Juvenile Services Department is so much more than what many call “The JAC.” “Yes, the JAC is where we process and positively identify the children we have in our custody, but it is also where we have the opportunity to conduct a full and thorough assessment of the child and recommend the appropriate course of action” explains Bess. “92% of the time, our non-judicial recommendations result in the child entering our Diversion Program and is assigned a case manager to monitor the child and their family. Most times, when a child is brought to the Juvenile Services Department, their actions and behavior are a symptom of larger issues. We find that these children are coming from unstable homes where the family is experiencing various degrees of difficulties, and we step in to not only monitor the child but also assist the family”.  The children and their families are connected with the various services Miami-Dade County has to offer. From childcare via camps in the Parks department, tutoring at the local library, and financial and employment assistance through the Community Action and Human Services Department. The goal is to stabilize the family and get that child back on track. 

These programs have a significant impact on the youth of Miami-Dade County. Director Bess shared her most cherished memory of her career: “Early in my career I had the opportunity to work with a young 16-year-old mother who was finishing high school and was in one of our programs. Not only were we helping her finish school but also providing support as a new mother. As customary, upon successful completion of the program, the child receives a completion letter that they refer to for needed information when applying to college or when entering the workforce. She received her letter, and I let her know to contact me or anyone from JSD for assistance. Years went by and I got a call regarding someone applying to Corrections. I spoke to the background investigator and let them know to send the person over, and I will provide them with what they need. When I saw who it was, I had tears in my eyes. This young mom had made it!” This is a true testament of the programs JSD have in place. 

Regardless of age, Director Bess is always lending a helping hand. Whether it’s rendering aid to a janitor that was experiencing symptoms heat exhaustion at the Hickman Building or assisting an older adult who became disoriented and needed help finding their vehicle, Director Bess’s selfness shines through. “These instances show a person who is truly dedicated to the well-being of others” explained Julia Villamizar, a Contracts Administrator for JSD. 

When not assisting others, Director Bess is an avid reader, enjoys going to concerts, traveling, and spending time with her grandson. 

Keep Thriving Director Bess!