(Woodland, CA) – The Yolo County District Attorney’s Restorative Justice Partnership (RJP) is now accepting applications for new volunteers. This is a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful community service by helping to resolve criminal cases through a community-based approach based on the principles of restorative justice.
RJP’s community volunteers or “Panelists” meet with people cited for criminal offenses in a facilitated conversation designed to reflect with empathy and accountability on the circumstances and impacts of the crime on the individuals involved and the community as a whole. Panelists play an essential role in crafting collaborative agreements that address victims’ needs and support positive change for those who have committed an offense.
A past program graduate said, “I felt the meeting was absolutely necessary and helpful to me and the resolution doesn’t feel like a punishment but a wonderful tool to help me become a better person. I appreciate the opportunity more than I can express.”
Since its inception in June 2013, RJP has been a pioneering diversion program in Yolo County. With over 3,600 participants and a remarkable 91% graduation rate, RJP boasts rearrest rates under 12% for graduates within two years of completion, and only 3% of graduates face new convictions within the same time frame. These low recidivism rates are a testament to the program’s success.
We invite you to become a part of this impactful initiative by attending an upcoming training session. Training is required for those interested in serving as a panelist or intern with RJP and will delve into the core principles of restorative justice, RJP’s three-step conference process, and the vital role of empathy and effective communication skills in restorative conversations.
Upcoming Training:
• Virtual: Thursday, August 11th & 18th, from 6 – 8 PM – or –
• In-Person: Saturday, November 7th, from 9 AM to 12:30 PM at the Davis Police Department
Prospective volunteers should apply online at https://bttr.im/8jxwh and are encouraged to attend a one-hour virtual pre-training orientation session before their chosen training date.
For additional details about the training or the RJP program, please contact Nicole Kirkaldy at Nicole.Kirkaldy@yolocounty.gov.
Join us in making a difference in the criminal justice system and your commailto:Nicole.Kirkaldy@yolocounty.govmunity. Apply today!
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