Programs and Services
Restorative Victim Services
Victims are invited to participate in all restorative justice programs to the extent that they feel comfortable.
Restorative Justice Programs
Restorative justice programs allow for direct community involvement in the resolution of criminal offenses through participation in Restorative Justice Panels, restorative conferences and/or restorative circles. People directly affected by a crime have an opportunity to participate in a justice process where they can articulate their needs, ask questions, seek restorative actions and receive support from their community. Those responsible for a crime can learn about the harm, make amends, and build a positive connection with their community.
Restorative Reentry Programs
These programs enhance community safety as people return to their communities from prison. Services offered include facilitating dialogue between inmates and family to promote healing and reintegration and the opportunity to learn new skills and make amends.
Those who have committed serious offenses may join a Circle of Support and Accountability (COSA), a personalized network of community members who volunteer their time to support the person’s actions as he or she builds a crime-free life.
Community Conflict Assistance
This program facilitates dialogue related to neighborhood and community issues. Professional mediation services help community members talk about and find solutions to their conflicts, which may involve such issues as noise, pets, boundaries, and landlord-tenant disputes. SRJC’s mediation services are free of charge to residents and businesses in Southern Windsor County.
Additional Offerings
Fine Reduction
This is a process by which people who have received a fine from the court can receive a substantial reduction in the amount they owe. To be eligible, the responsible party must be willing to work through a restorative panel.
Family Group Conferencing (FGC)
FGC is a facilitated conversation in which parties affected by, and responsible for, wrongdoing and conflict come together to address the situation.
Bicycle Recycle
The SRJC bicycle shop serves a twofold mission: to provide meaningful community service opportunities to people looking to give back to their community and to provide “wheels” to people who can’t drive and would benefit from a bicycle.
Volunteer Opportunities
SRJC relies on the talents of more than 50 dedicated volunteers. Without their commitment and enthusiasm, the justice center wouldn’t exist.
Volunteers serve on the Community Advisory Board (CAB), where citizens share the direction and governance of the CJC with the municipality, bringing the interests and needs of the community into planning what programs the justice center will offer.
- Trained Restorative Justice Panel volunteers meet twice a month with people who have committed misdemeanors and their victims and/or affected parties, if any. They collaboratively develop a contract with the person who offended to make amends and make a plan to not re-offend.
- Circle of Support and Accountability (COSA) volunteers meet weekly with a person returning to the community from incarceration (a core member) to offer support and model pro-social behavior.
For more information and to get involved, please call us at (802) 885-8707.