The GFCJC is a citizen-governed nonprofit that operates with input from the Village of Bellows Falls and its residents, as well as the surrounding towns of Westminster, Athens, Saxton’s River and the greater Rockingham area. We are committed to serving the needs and priorities of these communities, providing a safe environment for resolving conflicts, and promoting restorative justice and victim sensitivity. Citizen volunteers, trained in restorative practices, provide guidance to the center and deliver many of the services to our clients.
We recognize the potential for citizens to live in harmony with their neighbors, the local police, and other state agencies, and to contribute to the civility and well-being of the community. Started in 2011, we are a relatively new agency that looks forward to continuing to provide new programs that meet the needs of our ever-changing society and community.
Programs and Services
Restorative Victim Services
Our victim services offer community-based, emotional support and resource navigation to victims of property crimes, in the immediate aftermath of the event.
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 Program
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.
Additional Offerings
Jobs Class
We help connect people who want to learn more about looking for and landing a job with other state agencies that are located in the same building in which we are housed.
Trainings
The GFCJC offers trainings at Parks Place to groups interested in learning more about conflict management and restorative justice. We intend to help develop restorative practices in the Bellows Falls Union High School.
Volunteer Opportunities
- We believe that we all can make a difference in our community.
- Volunteers are needed to join Circles of Support and Accountability (COSAs) with people as they transition from prison back to our community
- Volunteers are also needed to serve on Restorative Justice Panels to conduct structured problem-solving meetings with persons responsible for and affected by a crime.
Please feel free to call us at (802) 376-9637 or come to Parks Place, located at 44 School Street. Find out what you can do to help your community and see the other services available.