|
Haroon Bajwa, Restorative Justice Coordinator with Manjit and Suman Virk
Congratulations to the Restorative Justice Team, winner of the Nova Star Award in the 2009 Volunteers are Stars Gala!
Click and see the congratulation letters below:
Restorative Justice is an alternative approach to the courts that places emphasis on accountability and problem solving as a way of addressing the harm that takes place when a crime or incident occurs. The Richmond Restorative Justice Program utilizes a model of restorative justice called the Community Justice Forum (CJF).
A CJF is a community-based alternative to the court system, where a trained volunteer (Facilitator) brings everyone (Victim, offender, their families and/or supporters, as well as other affected parties) who has been affected by a crime or incident together to discuss the matter and hold accountable the person responsible for the crime or violation. Facilitators help the participants work together in building a resolution agreement that repairs the harm.
The Richmond Restorative Justice Program:
- Is funded by the City of Richmond and is an integral part of its Youth Strategy
- Is delivered by Touchstone Family Association
- Is partnered with the RCMP
- Accepts suitable RCMP referrals for children (Under 12), youth (12 to 17) and adults who have committed less serious crimes in the community (Theft, fraud, vandalism, mischief, etc.)
- Holds offenders accountable for their actions
- Empowers and gives a voice to victims who have been harmed
- Invites family and supporters of both the victim and offender to participate in the CJF to help resolve the matter
- Supports parents in addressing their child’s unacceptable behaviour
- Provides offenders with an opportunity to learn from their mistake and regain acceptance in the community
- Treats all of the participants of a CJF with honesty, fairness and respect
- Builds community by encouraging people to collectively resolve conflict
- Aims to prevent people from re-offending in the future
- Helps promote a safe, caring and healthy community
For more information and/or to volunteer, contact Haroon Bajwa at
604-207-5039 or email hbajwa@touchfam.ca. |
 |
AGM 2007 - Katy Hutchison with the Restorative Justice Team
If you would like to volunteer for the Restorative Justice Program, click HERE!
If you would to work as a facilitator for the Program, click HERE!
Click here to meet our counselling team!
|
