RESTORATIVE JUSTICE PROGRAMMING AT THE RCJC

Our innovative program model works directly with the Queens District Attorney, local police precincts, and partnering community-based organizations so residents of the Rockaways charged with violations, infractions, and low level misdemeanors can have their day in court in front of their own peers and neighbors, eliminating the need to travel over two hours to Criminal Court in Kew Gardens.

Individuals referred to the RCJC will have their cases heard by a panel of community volunteers and will receive support from a trained advocate.  If a sanction is warranted, the panel will offer participants opportunities to repay their debt through local internship, mediation, restorative justice circles, job readiness training, and/or community service options that are designed to maintain the individuals’ dignity.

Internships will be facilitated by RDRC, a partner agency with strong relationships to businesses in the area.  They will place the participant with a business that is most suited for their interest/skillset.

Mediation would be the resolving of the harm done to the complainant in the case, by the participant in the Court.

Restorative justice circles include family members, friends and colleagues with an interest in the welfare of the individual referred for services.  Circles are used to respond to wrongdoing, conflicts and problems and give everyone an opportunity to speak and listen to one another in an atmosphere of safety and equality.

Job readiness training includes resume building with the participant, interview training, receiving new, work appropriate clothing from the RCJC, as well as assistance with scheduling interviews.

Community Service is reserved for participants in the program that are on track with either working, attending school, or both. They can complete community service hours with a partnering agency, or at the RCJC.

Participants will also have access to several support services housed within the RCJC.

Our innovative model works directly with partnering police precincts so residents of the Rockaways can have their day in court in front of their own peers and neighbors, eliminating the need to travel to Criminal Court in Kew Gardens.