Restorative Justice Project Maine

RJP Maine provides restorative solutions in response to juvenile offenses in Hancock, Waldo, Knox, Lincoln, and Sagadahoc Counties; serving about 65 youths per year in partnership with the Department of Corrections;this program engages over 500 community members in process annually.RJP Maine provides restorative solutions in response to adult offenses in Waldo, Knox and Lincoln counties; we are working to secure funding to expand adult services across our service area. Current capacity is funded by grants. Approximately 47 adult offenders are referred to this process annually; thus, just over 220 community members are engaged in responding to crime/harm caused by adults in the community setting. MYC also has a contract for $365,000 with the DOC providing similar programs in the Portland and Lewiston Maine area.

MCRRC:For more than 10 years, RJP Maine has provided Restorative services to the Maine Coastal Regional Reentry Center through a unique collaboration with the Waldo County Sherriff and Volunteers of America. We train and support the MCRCC staff and residents to use restorative practices within the institution as a non-adversarial, solution focused way to problem solve conflicts and infractions. RJP Maine provides group programming for all residents at the center and jail. 95% of residents have participated in introduction to Restorative Justice. Recidivism for the center is 27% compare to statewide average of 58%. MCRRC is providing Restorative practice classes and mentors for the residents-a $42,000 contract with Volunteers of America. Additional income from donations.

Brynes Criminal Justice Innovation Grant: Rather than seeking to reform the current legal system, Community Hubs create an alternative justice infrastructure led by local communities so that anyone may seek a restorative response. Highlights-4 County offices Established ; Belfast, Rockland, Darmariscotta and Bath. 23 Listening Sessions in which 148 community members attended, 39 volunteer steering team members.