With youth crime reportedly rising in the Memphis, Tennesse area, one auto repair shop owner decided to start a STEM program for local teenagers, Local Memphis reports.

According to Memphis police, 2,000 vehicles have been stolen in the city just this year, with over 100 adolescents being arrested for car thefts.

Kimberly Jones is the owner of Rusty Autohouse, and was the victim of not only one vehicle theft, but two.

Jones recounted one Friday evening when her Jeep was stolen. Later that same night, a group came to take her Dodge Challenger. 

“I know it was kids because my son came home from college and he walked up on them. He was like, ‘Mama, they’re all teenagers,’” Jones stated.

After the incident, he wanted to help local teens put their time towards something that could help them succeed without hurting others. 

She started the Youth STEM Automotive Summer Program as a result, teaching students how to perform oil changes, change a tire, and do auto body work. She believes the program will help keep kids off the streets and encourage growth and success.

“Some crimes are committed during school hours because kids don’t want to be in school ... A lot of kids don’t like coming to school, but if you learn a trade and it’s something you’re interested in, you’ll stick with it,” Jones said.