PURPOSE OF POSITION: To positively reintegrate people (“core members”) returning to our community after incarceration through uplifting and supportive social connections.

DUTIES: Engage with other volunteers, CJC staff, and core member in conversations in a weekly circle that provides support and accountability.  

QUALIFICATIONS:

Willingness and ability to:

  • Engage in a restorative process

  • Work with a team  

  • Take direction from staff

  • Be fair

  • To listen

  • To be aware of personal judgments

Prospective Volunteers may not be: 

  • currently under the supervision of the Department of Corrections for any crime. 

  • currently in the process of completing their own Restorative Justice Panel agreement. 

  • having any other complicating entanglements with the Department of Corrections, or their local law enforcement agency including but not limited to; pending or unresolved legal actions, civil action or informal history that would create a conflict of interest. (If you are uncertain and would still like to volunteer, please contact us). 

TRAINING: All volunteers for the Essex Community Justice Center must have the following training prior to serving as a COSA team member:

  • Basic Orientation to the Department of Corrections and Prison Rape Elimination Act training (PREA) through the DOC Volunteer Coordinator

  • Statewide COSA training including COSA observation

BENEFITS:  Creating a stronger community by assisting fellow community members to feel welcomed and supported. Supporting those affected by crime by holding individuals accountable for their actions. Support a program that reduces reoffending by responsible parties, making your community safer.

 COMMITMENT: A minimum commitment of one-year service on a COSA team, and attendance at team meetings weekly.  Expectations include completion of initial trainings, case preparations, regular contact with reentry coordinator, and ongoing trainings when appropriate.  If you are inactive on the team for 12 months or more, you will need to complete steps to update your volunteer status before becoming active.