Restorative Justice

Restorative Justice (RJ) is a philosophical framework that views crime as an injury and justice as a process for healing to take place. RJ seeks to balance the needs of victims and communities rather than just those of the offender.

"We repeat what we don't repair."

-Anonymous

Who Can Participate in Restorative Justice?

Although this program primarily sees juvenile offenders, RJ can accommodate anyone. The State of Colorado recommends offenders 10-25 years of age be referred to an RJ program if available and appropriate.

  • Cases excluded from the RJ program are sexual assaults and domestic violence cases.
  • Referrals can be made from the community, our schools, law enforcement personnel, the District Attorney's Office, Juvenile Diversion, the Municipal Court, and probation.
  • This program is administered through the Erie Police Department, and the face-to-face meetings with all parties are performed by highly trained and dedicated volunteers from our community.

Volunteer

Rs of Restorative JusticeDo you believe there are situations when criminal justice should also focus on repairing the harm? Consider volunteering as a Restorative Justice Facilitator with the Erie Police Department.

The Restorative Justice Program is seeking volunteers for both community member representatives and trained facilitators. Trained facilitators bring together the person harmed (victim), the person who caused harm (offender), community members, and support people to discuss what happened, the harm caused, who was impacted, and how the offender can repair the harm. Restorative Justice is a program which offers participants a voice, engages and empowers the community, and provides an opportunity for better outcomes, understanding, and empathy. In addition, utilizing Restorative Justice has been shown to reduce recidivism.

To be a facilitator, you must:

•    Demonstrate enthusiasm for restorative justice principles

•    Display compassion and empathy

•    Have the ability to think creatively and suspend judgment

•    Possess excellent communication skills 

•    Value inclusion, equity, and cultural competency

•    Pass a background check and be drug-free

•    Commit to the program for a year and attend monthly volunteer meetings

To be a community member, you must:

•    Live in Erie, CO

•    Display compassion and empathy

•    Have the ability to think creatively and suspend judgment

•    Exhibit excellent communication skills 

•    Value inclusion, equity, and cultural competency

Training for those interested in representing as a Community Member, please contact RJ Manager Valerie Greenfield at vgreenfield@erieco.gov or call 303-926-2841. Please complete the application here if you are interested in volunteering as an RJ Facilitator.

More

Erie Restorative Justice Brochure
Communities for Restorative Justice Website
Restorative Justice Colorado Website

For moreens a New Window.  Opens a New Window.  information or to volunteer, please email Restorative Justice or call 303-926-2841.